Blood Clots (Venous Thromboembolism or VTE), is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, with 544,000 VTE-related deaths every year in Europe alone. Up to 60% of VTE cases occur during or up to 90 days after hospitalisation, making it a leading preventable cause of hospital death. It is also the leading cause of maternal death in our Maternity Hospital. VTE is a life-changing and traumatic event. Among survivors of VTE, a significant burden of chronic morbidity (including painful postthrombotic syndrome) has been reported and it is associated with a major impact on quality of life. The devastation that it can cause to survivors and the families who have lost loved ones, should not be understated, therefore, there is an urgent need to invest in national awareness and education of patients & healthcare professionals. Blood clots can happen to anyone at any time. They usually occur when a person is experiencing more than one risk factor at any one time in their life. They are very preventable and easily treatable if caught on time but potentially fatal if the signs are missed. This is why it is so important that every person knows risk factors, signs to watch for and the importance of getting medical attention fast. Thrombosis Ireland was officially formed by Patients in 2016 to address the lack of awareness and education for patients and Health Care Professionals about VTE and the complicated anticoagulation medication involved in treatment. We also have grave concerns about the absence of any co-ordinated physical or psychological recovery supports for blood clot patients and we will continue to advocate for improvements.
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