NASSAU UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER RECOGNIZES MARCH AS DEEP-VEIN THROMBOSIS (DVT) AWARENESS MONTH

March 3, 2009
Contact:  Shelley Lotenberg
(516) 572-6055
shelley@numc.edu

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Nassau University Medical Center Recognizes March as Deep-Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Awareness Month

National Program in its Sixth Year of Raising Awareness of  DVT

East Meadow, NY….. Arthur A. Gianelli, President/CEO announced today its support of DVT Awareness Month, joining a national effort to raise awareness of this serious, yet preventable condition and its potentially fatal complication, pulmonary embolism (PE).  According to the American Heart Association, up to two million Americans are affected annually by DVT; PE causes approximately 300,000 deaths in the United States each year, more than AIDS and breast cancer combined.  Yet, a national survey found that 60 percent of Americans have little or no awareness of DVT.

“DVT occurs when a blood clot forms and partially or completely blocks blood flow inside a deep vein, typically located in the calf or thigh.  If the blood clot breaks free and travels to the lungs, known as a pulmonary embolism (PE), it may obstruct the pulmonary artery or one of its branches, blocking blood flow,” said Glenn R. Faust, MD, Chairman of Surgery at NUMC.

“Providing our patients with the best quality care possible is a top priority.  While DVT and PE cost hospitals an estimated $340 million annually nationwide, it takes a far greater toll on human lives.  By heightening awareness of the risk factors and ensuring appropriate preventative measures are taken, we can reduce the incidence of this condition.”

The Coalition to Prevent DVT, a national organization funded by Sanofi-Aventis U.S. LLC, is comprised of more than 45 members from medical societies, patient advocacy groups and other public health organizations.  It has spearheaded DVT Awareness Month efforts since its launch in March 2003.  Since the Coalition’s formation, more than one billion educational messages have been delivered.

“DVT Awareness Month provides an excellent opportunity for the general public and healthcare community to learn about this disease and how to reduce the risk of a DVT blood clot,” said Steven Walerstein, MD, Senior Vice President for Medical Affairs  and Medical Director of the NHCC.  “We encourage both the public and healthcare professionals to be aware of all the risk factors associated with DVT, so that patients can be treated appropriately.”

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 clocked circulation.   A DVT blood 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.  Up to two million Americans are affected by DVT Blood clots annually.  Approximately 600,000 Americans are hospitalized each year for DVT and its primary complication, PE.  DVT-related PE is the most common cause of preventable hospital death.  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 severely restricted mobility due to acute illness, cancer, congestive heart failure or respiratory failure, certain surgeries, 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 www.prevendvt.org or www.dvt.net or for a consultation, please call the NUMC Department of Surgery at 516-572-6703.