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Microgravity as a contributing factor to venous thromboembolism development: Risks and prevention strategies
Nilanjana Ghosh1, Iti Garg1, Swati Srivastava1
1Genomics Division, Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Science, Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi 110054, India.
Life Sciences in Space Research
|August 7, 2025
Summary
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk increases in spaceflight due to microgravity altering blood viscosity and coagulation. More research is vital for astronaut VTE prevention and treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Space Medicine
- Hematology
Background:
- Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major global cardiovascular disease.
- Microgravity significantly impacts thrombotic parameters, increasing VTE risk for astronauts.
- Current understanding of spaceflight-induced coagulation changes is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on microgravity and venous thrombosis.
- To identify knowledge gaps regarding coagulation in spaceflight.
- To highlight the need for further research into space-related VTE.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of available reports on microgravity and venous thrombosis.
- Analysis of studies on ground-based analogues and microgravity effects on coagulation.
- Synthesis of findings on astronaut coagulation changes.
Main Results:
- Microgravity exposure leads to higher blood viscosity and increased VTE risk in astronauts.
- Astronauts may experience elevated coagulation in cerebral venous systems due to altered blood flow and pressure.
- Observed changes include high fibrinogen, endothelial injury, and hypercoagulation.
Conclusions:
- Significant gaps exist in understanding spaceflight-related coagulation disorders.
- Further research is critical to elucidate pathogenic processes during space travel.
- This knowledge is essential for developing diagnostic and mitigation strategies for VTE in astronauts.
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