Contemporary methods of assessment of possible cardiovascular disease based on traditional risk factors are not perfect. Therefore new ways are sought. Simple and cheap methods include asses- sment of the blood pressure on the lower extremities above the ankles. The finding of a reduced index of ankle pressure (ratio of blood pressure above the ankles and pressure on the arm) indicates affection of the arteries of the lower extremities and a significantly increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (in particular myocardial infarction and stroke), independently on other risk factors. Therefore this simple examination should be made in middle aged and elderly sub- jects with a medium and high cardiovascular risk in order to define more accurately the health status, and in case of a reduced ankle pressure similar provisions should be made as in patients with secondary preventive care.

        Key words: Atherosclerosis - Risk factors - Ankle pressure