Epidemiological characteristics of lower extremity arterial disease in Chinese diabetes patients at high risk: a prospective, multicenter, cross-sectional study.

Aims: To determine the epidemiological characteristics of lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD) in high-risk patients and identify practical gaps in LEAD management.

Methods: This cross-sectional study consecutively enrolled 10681 patients with type 2 diabetes from 30 hospitals across China from June 2016 to January 2017. All patients were assessed for LEAD by the Ankle-Brachial Index in conjunction with lower limb ultrasonography according to local guidelines.