Epidemiology and incidence: the scope of the problem and risk factors for development of venous thromboembolism.
The proportion of hospitalized patients with pulmonary embolism (PE) is increasing. Whether this represents more admissions with PE or more diagnoses made in hospitalized patients is uncertain. The proportion of hospitalized patients with deep venous thrombosis has decreased precipitously as a result of home treatment. Asians and Native Americans have a lower incidence of PE than whites or African Americans. The incidence of PE increases exponentially with age, but no age group, including infants and children, is immune. Several medical illnesses have now been shown to be associated with a higher risk for venous thromboembolism. Epidemiologic data and new information on risk factors provide insight into making an informed clinical assessment and evaluation for antithrombotic prophylaxis.
Department of Internal Medicine and Research and Advanced Studies Program, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, MSU/COM Venous Thromboembolism Research Unit, 44405 Woodward Avenue, Pontiac, MI 48341-5023, USA. steinp@trinity-health.org
Paul D
PD
Stein
Fadi
F
Matta
D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D015995:Prevalence; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000401:mortality; D012307:Risk Factors; D054556:Venous Thromboembolism / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000401:mortality