Thrombosis: a major contributor to global disease burden

    Thrombosis Research
    |October 15, 2014
    PubMed

    Insights

    Venous thromboembolism (VTE) causes a significant global disease burden, particularly in older populations and those hospitalized. More data is needed to inform policies and reduce VTE

    Area of Science:

    • Public Health
    • Epidemiology
    • Cardiovascular Medicine

    Background:

    • Thrombosis, including venous thromboembolism (VTE), is a major cause of death and disability worldwide.
    • Ischemic heart disease and stroke, linked to thrombosis, caused 25% of global deaths in 2010.
    • Data on the global burden of VTE was lacking in the Global Burden of Disease Study 2010.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To systematically review the global disease burden of VTE across countries with varying income levels.
    • To analyze VTE incidence rates and identify populations at higher risk.
    • To compare the VTE disease burden with other common hospital-acquired conditions.

    Main Methods:

    • Systematic literature review focusing on VTE disease burden in low, middle, and high-income countries.
    • Analysis of incidence data from studies in Western Europe, North America, Australia, and Argentina.
    • Examination of disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) attributed to VTE, especially in hospitalized patients.

    Main Results:

    • Consistent annual VTE incidence of 0.75–2.69 per 1,000 individuals in developed countries, increasing to 2–7 per 1,000 for those over 70.
    • Despite lower incidence, aging populations in China and Korea contribute to a substantial VTE burden.
    • Hospital-associated VTE was a leading cause of DALYs lost in low/middle-income countries and second in high-income countries, exceeding other nosocomial infections and adverse events.

    Conclusions:

    • Venous thromboembolism (VTE) represents a significant global health burden across all income levels.
    • Aging populations and hospitalizations are key factors contributing to the VTE disease burden.
    • Further data collection and evaluation of preventive strategies are crucial for effective health policy and resource allocation to mitigate VTE's impact.

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