As the world observes World Thrombosis Day on October 13, 2024, the Dean of the Faculty of Health Law and Humanities at the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo State, LeRoy Edozien has issued a rallying call for increased awareness about the dangers of thrombosis.
Speaking at an event in Asaba on Friday, he stressed the critical need for government and stakeholders to tackle the issue.
“Thrombosis is a condition in which a clot is formed in a blood vessel. If this clot is dislodged, it wreaks havoc and often causes instant death,”warned Prof. Edozien, who also serves as the Convener of PROTRAIN.
He highlighted troubling correlations between COVID-19 and thrombosis, recalling cases where patients seemingly recovering were suddenly lost; “I know of two cases where individuals died unexpectedly after getting out of bed.”
He elaborated on the conditions that predispose individuals to thromboembolism, saying, “Obesity, genetic predisposition, and prolonged immobility—all contribute to the risk.”
Edozien lamented the low level of VTE awareness in Nigeria, stating, “Unfortunately, awareness of VTE among health professionals and the public is minimal. The key to reducing mortality lies in prevention.”
He urged preventative measures such as ambulation, hydration, and the use of compression stockings.
“Let us start today to raise awareness of VTE among Nigerians. Together, we can generate swirls of awareness, and who knows, a life saved could be that of your parent, spouse, sibling, friend—or your own,” he added.
