Addressing the rising trend of high‐risk pulmonary embolism mortality: Clinical and research priorities

Abstract

Deaths from high‐risk pulmonary embolism (PE) appear to have increased in the last decade. Modifiable risks contributing to this worrisome trend present opportunities for physicians, researchers, and healthcare policymakers to reduce excess mortality. Emerging advanced therapies for PE appear promising, although we lack clear insight as to the magnitude of potential benefit and which patient subgroup(s) should receive them. Treatment and outcome disparities attributable to social determinants of health demand new healthcare delivery policy. In this article, we examine current PE epidemiology, suggest quality improvement and healthcare policy initiatives, and discuss relevant ongoing clinical trials aimed at addressing excess PE mortality.