Thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms within a blood vessel, preventing the proper flow of blood in the circulatory system.¹

Blood clots may break away from their original vascular site and travel to other parts of the body, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. It is estimated that 1 in 4 people die from causes related to thrombosis.²

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is an umbrella term for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary thromboembolism (PE). Approximately 50% of patients with DVT will subsequently develop a PE, where a blood clot breaks free and lodges in the arteries of the lung.³

Data suggests that someone in the Western world dies from VTE every 37 seconds.²

Image adapted from Xiong W et al. Front Pharmacol 2022 Mar 24;13:810455

VTE is the third most common cardiovascular disease, after acute myocardial infarction and stroke. In the UK, over 69,000 hospital episodes of PE were reported between 2021–2022, resulting in 36,757 admissions.⁶

Thrombosis in the UK and Europe

We at Viatris have created a fact sheet that provides an overview of thrombosis in the UK and Europe, as well as the role Viatris is playing in this therapy area. To learn more click the image below to download.

What is VTE?

Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) includes Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE). DVT involves the formation of blood clots in deep veins, often in the lower legs, leading to pain and swelling. If a clot travels to the lungs it can cause PE, a potentially life-threatening condition where the lung tissue are damaged by a lack of blood flow.¹

Another clotting disorder, superficial vein thrombosis (SVT), can occur in most superficial venous systems in the body but is most frequently diagnosed in the lower-limb saphenous veins.²

Why Focus on VTE?¹

VTE is a major health concern worldwide, with significant impact on patient health and healthcare systems. Prompt recognition, effective treatment, and preventive measures are key to managing this condition and improving patient outcomes. Keeping up-to-date with the latest information and practices in VTE is essential for all healthcare providers.