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Published on: February 10, 2023
Venous thromboembolism and ethnicity
Lara N Roberts1, Raj K Patel, Roopen Arya
1King's Thrombosis Centre, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, UK. lara.roberts@kch.nhs.uk
British Journal of Haematology
|June 26, 2009
Summary
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) affects diverse populations, contrary to past beliefs. Research shows VTE is prevalent in Black and Asian groups, necessitating further study into ethnic variations and risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Epidemiology
- Genetics
Background:
- Venous thromboembolism (VTE) was historically considered a disease primarily affecting white populations.
- This misconception stemmed from limited epidemiological data in non-Western countries and lower reported hereditary thrombophilia incidence in non-Caucasians.
- Recent evidence suggests VTE is equally or more prevalent in Black populations and common in Asian groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of ethnic variations in VTE prevalence.
- To highlight the limitations of current knowledge regarding hereditary thrombophilia and acquired risk factors in non-Caucasian groups.
- To emphasize the need for further research into VTE epidemiology across diverse ethnicities.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epidemiological studies on VTE.
- Analysis of data on hereditary thrombophilia and acquired risk factors in different ethnic groups.
- Synthesis of current research on ethnic variations in VTE.
Main Results:
- VTE prevalence is significant in Black and Asian populations, challenging previous assumptions.
- Existing knowledge of thrombophilia and acquired risk factors does not fully account for VTE risk in non-Caucasian individuals.
- There is a notable gap in comprehensive epidemiological data from non-Western regions.
Conclusions:
- VTE affects diverse ethnic groups, not just white populations.
- Further research is crucial to elucidate the genetic and environmental factors contributing to VTE risk in non-Caucasian populations.
- Understanding ethnic variations in VTE is essential for accurate risk assessment and targeted prevention strategies.
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