Black Americans undergoing procedures to restore blood flow to limbs face significantly worse outcomes than their white counterparts, according to new research presented at a major cardiology conference. The study found that Black patients were 46% more likely to require an amputation after treatment for chronic limb-threatening ischemia, a condition caused by blocked arteries in the arms or legs.
Researchers tracked over 381,000 patients between 2016 and 2023. Within a year of the procedure, nearly 32% of Black patients had either died or undergone a major amputation, compared to about 28% of white patients. The disparity was largely driven by the higher amputation rate among Black patients.
Dr. Joseph Kim, a cardiology fellow at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, noted that Black patients made up nearly 20% of the study population but faced nearly a 50% higher risk of amputation. “These findings highlight the ongoing challenges Black patients face in accessing timely vascular care,” Kim said.
The study also revealed that Black patients were 10% less likely to see a blood vessel specialist before the procedure and 26% more likely to be hospitalized due to complications. They were also more likely to require emergency care. Despite these challenges, Black patients had a 10% lower risk of death compared to white patients.
Dr. James Hermiller, president of the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions, emphasized the need for “inclusive research and targeted interventions” to improve cardiovascular care for underserved populations.
See: “Black Patients, Women Face Worse Outcomes, Death In Heart & Blood Vessel Procedures” (May 19, 2025)
