The U.S. Surgeon General Issues National Call-to-Action on Deep-Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Emb...(lth and to reduce their risk for illness...),Health

The Call-to-Action urges a coordinated, multifaceted plan to reduce the number of cases of DVT and PE nationwide. The plan emphasizes the need for:
-- Increased awareness about DVT and PE

-- Evidence-based practices for DVT

-- More research on the causes, prevention, and treatment of DVT.

The Call-to-Action resulted from a Surgeon General's workshop on DVT which was convened in May 2006. The workshop was co-sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) of the National Institutes of Health. This workshop was funded by sanofi-aventis.

About Deep-Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism

DVT occurs when a thrombus (blood clot) forms in one of the large veins, usually in the lower limbs, leading to either partially or completely blocked circulation. If left untreated, this clot has the potential to move into the lungs and block circulation to this vital organ creating a life threatening condition -- known as pulmonary embolism (PE) -- requiring immediate medical attention. Complications from DVT kill more people each year in the U.S. than breast cancer and AIDS combined.

Certain individuals may be at increased risk for developing DVT; however, it can occur in almost anyone. Additional risk factors include, but are not limited to restricted mobility, cancer, certain heart or respiratory diseases, major surgery, such as hip or knee replacements, advanced age, oral contraceptives or hormone therapy. It is important to consult your healthcare provider about the signs and symptoms associated with DVT. For more information, visit http://www.preventdvt.org.

About the Coalition to Prevent Deep-Vein Thrombosis

In February 2003, more than 60 organizations assembled at the Public He
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