Atherosclerosis is described, evaluated, and treated differently depending on the affected artery, as described below. However, multiple studies have shown strong correlations between the different types of atherosclerosis. In particular, patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease have an increased risk of Coronary Artery Disease, and severe Peripheral Artery Disease symptoms can be a predictor of cardiac related mortality. The majority of patients begin to develop symptoms from ischemia around middle age, even though vessel narrowing can develop silently and slowly over decades. Unfortunately, sudden cardiac death or stroke can be a patient's first sign of vascular disease. Therefore, controlling risk factors is crucial in those with known atherosclerosis to prevent progression of disease, and screening is recommended by some Vascular Disease Specialists for those at increased risk, such as those with diabetes, smoking or a strong family history of cardiovascular disease.