Health

Air travel and DVT link studied

NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted Jan. 19, 2004

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Airplane flights of eight hours or more doubled the risk for calf muscle venous thrombosis and translated into an increased risk for deep venous thrombosis as well, said researchers in two studies published in the Dec. 8, 2003, issue of The Archives of Internal Medicine.

Another study in the Dec. 19, 2003, issue of The Lancet found that, contrary to earlier reports, wearing compression stockings apparently did not prevent DVT in several air travelers.

The Archives study led by Ida Martinelli, MD, PhD, of the University of Milano, Italy, found that factors such as the lack of certain proteins in the blood, use of oral contraceptives, recent surgery, cancer, pregnancy and prolonged immobilization increased the risk of blood clots in the veins.

Recommendations for avoiding clots made by the group Airhealth.org, include frequent flexing of the legs, even while seated, using anticoagulants and drinking electrolytic beverages.

Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2004/01/19/hlbf0119.htm.

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