Awareness of venous thromboembolism among patients with cancer: Preliminary findings from a global initiative for World Thrombosis Day

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), comprising deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), is a common complication in patients with cancer, who have an estimated 12-to 23-fold increased risk to develop VTE compared to individuals without cancer. 1 Cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (CAT) is expected to become more frequent due to improved cancer survival, which ultimately results in a larger and older cancer population that is longer exposed to CAT-associated risk factors such as use of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. 2 Besides the substantial morbidity and mortality, CAT may also lead to delayed access to or withdrawal of cancer treatments, prolonged or repeated hospitalizations, thwarting optimal cancer management,

Gynecological Cancer and Venous Thromboembolism: A Narrative Review to Increase Awareness and Improve Risk Assessment and Prevention

“…Due to its debilitating and poor prognostic effect, the prompt prevention and management of venous thromboembolism in gynecological malignancy is important. However, the literature data report an underestimation of this major health problem in patients with gynecological cancers and a decline or inconsistent venous thromboembolism risk assessment and prophylaxis in this setting [12,13].…”

“…After cancer itself, venous thromboembolism represents the second cause of death in patients with cancer [10,11]. Other than the substantial morbidity and mortality, venous thromboembolism in cancer patients may lead to withdrawal or delayed access to cancer treatments, long or recurrent hospitalization, contraindication to receiving some therapies (e.g., anti-angiogenics) and enrollment in clinical trials, and may account for significant psychosocial distress for patients and their caregivers, as well as for high healthcare system costs [12,13].…”

Tumor Genetics Are Thrombogenic

“… 3 Identification of such high-risk patients remains a challenge. 4 , 5 The increase in prevalence and improved life expectancy among patients with cancer warrants further investigation of the prevention, management, and awareness of ATE. 6 Tumor genetic profiling has a clear influence on vascular disease and adds another dimension to ATE prognostication.…”