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World distribution of factor V Leiden
1MRC Molecular Haematology Unit, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK.
Lancet (London, England)
|October 28, 1995
Summary
Factor V Leiden, a risk factor for venous thromboembolism, is most prevalent in Europeans (4.4%) and absent in African and Asian populations. This genetic variation may explain differing rates of thromboembolic disease globally.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Epidemiology
- Medical Science
Background:
- Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant health concern.
- Factor V Leiden is a known genetic risk factor for VTE.
- Understanding the global distribution of Factor V Leiden is crucial for assessing VTE risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the prevalence of the Factor V Leiden mutation across diverse global populations.
- To investigate the correlation between Factor V Leiden allele frequency and the incidence of venous thromboembolic disease.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 3380 chromosomes from 1690 unrelated individuals across twenty-four populations.
- Genotyping for the presence of the Factor V Leiden mutation.
Main Results:
- Factor V Leiden allele frequency was 4.4% in Europeans, with the highest prevalence in Greeks (7%).
- A lower frequency (0.6%) was observed in Asia Minor.
- The mutation was absent in populations from Africa, Southeast Asia, Australasia, and the Americas.
Conclusions:
- The geographical distribution of Factor V Leiden suggests a role in the varying rates of VTE globally.
- The high prevalence in Europeans warrants consideration for screening in specific clinical contexts.
- Further research into genetic predispositions for VTE is recommended.