World Thrombosis Day: How to prevent and detect blood clots that kill millions

Today marks the 10th anniversary of World Thrombosis Day, a global campaign that aims to raise awareness of the signs, symptoms and risk factors of thrombosis, commonly known as blood clots. 

According to the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH), the organisation behind the campaign, thrombosis is the leading cause of preventable hospital deaths across the globe, and one in four people die worldwide from conditions related to blood clots.

Thrombosis can develop in, or travel to, blood vessels throughout the body, often causing symptoms that can be mistaken for other conditions. 

The most common signs of a blood clot in the leg, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can include pain or tenderness in the calf, swelling of the ankle or foot, redness or noticeable discolouration and/or warmth in the area. 

Signs of a blood clot in the lungs, or pulmonary embolism (PE), can include unexplained shortness of breath, rapid breathing, chest pain, rapid heart rate and/or light-headedness or loss of consciousness.

Dr Lana Castellucci, chair of the World Thrombosis Day Steering Committee, said that one of the reasons that thrombosis ends up as the cause of death for one in four people worldwide is that many of its symptoms are synonymous with other common conditions. 

“When a person experiences a leg cramp, for example, it is unlikely that they will seek a blood clot screening, and unfortunately, that can result in the condition becoming fatal. We are working to educate the public on the signs and symptoms of this prevalent condition to ensure proper medical care is sought before it’s too late,” she said.

Some risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing blood clots are extended hospitalisation, cancer treatment, pregnancy and postpartum. Regularly exercising and maintaining a healthy weight is important for people with these and other risk factors. 

Incorporating movement in blood clot prevention inspired World Thrombosis Day’s theme this year: Move Against Thrombosis. The campaign encourages people to move their legs by walking and stretching to increase blood flow and help reduce the potential for blood clots to form.

To learn more about the basics of blood clots, visit the World Thrombosis Day website.