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Venous thromboembolism in the US: does race matter?
Steven B Deitelzweig1, Jay Lin, Barbara H Johnson
1Ochsner Clinic Foundation, 1514 Jefferson Hwy, New Orleans, LA 70121-2429, USA. sdeitelzweig@ochsner.org
Journal of Thrombosis and Thrombolysis
|July 27, 2010
Summary
African-Americans have a higher probability of venous thromboembolism (VTE) compared to Caucasians. VTE prevalence was highest in African-American males, indicating a need for targeted prevention and awareness efforts across all racial groups.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Health Disparities
Background:
- Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant health concern with limited research on racial disparities.
- Understanding VTE prevalence across different racial groups is crucial for effective public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze racial differences in VTE prevalence among US Medicaid enrollees.
- To identify specific racial and gender groups with the highest VTE risk.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the MarketScan® Multi-State Medicaid Database (2002-2005) for patients aged ≥18 years.
- Defined VTE based on inpatient or outpatient claims with diagnosis and anticoagulant use.
- Employed logistic regression to calculate VTE odds ratios across racial groups.
Main Results:
- African-Americans showed a significantly higher probability of VTE than Caucasians (aOR 1.04, 95% CI 1.00-1.07).
- VTE prevalence was highest in African-American males, followed by Caucasian males, Caucasian females, and African-American females.
- Hispanic males and females exhibited lower VTE prevalence compared to other groups.
Conclusions:
- Racial disparities in VTE prevalence exist, with African-Americans facing higher risk.
- VTE prevalence increased over the study period, particularly in African-American males.
- Enhanced VTE awareness and prevention strategies are needed for all racial and ethnic populations.
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