Study population
death, cardiovascular disease
EVENTS, CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
The getABI study is a prospective cohort study that started in 2001 and aimed to determine the association between the ankle brachial index (ABI) and cardiovascular events in primary care patients. 34 angiology specialists recruited primary care physicians from 344 practices all over Germany. In October 2001, at least 20 patients 65 years or older per general practitioner were recruited for the study. One exclusion criterion was a life expectancy of less than 6 months. A complete health status was obtained, which included a detailed medical history with special attention to cardiovascular disease as well as medical and socioeconomic risk factors. In addition, information on height, pulse status, heart rate, blood pressure, and ABI status was gathered. Followed-up visits took place after 1, 3, 5, and 7 years. In case of death, time of death and cause of death were determined with the help of the primary care physician and registration offices [