Pulmonary Embolism : Risk Factors
Risk factors for Pulmonary Embolism
Risk factors include being overweight, smoking cigarettes, being immobile, and having high blood pressure—all of which can be potentially controlled with a heart healthy lifestyle. A study earlier this year showed that eating fruits and vegetables can be protective against developing PE. However, frequent red meat eaters had double the risk of developing PE. Other risk factors for PE include cancer, long-haul air flights, surgery, and trauma. PE is also a women’s health issue and is associated with birth control pills, pregnancy, and hormone replacement therapy. Certain inborn genetic mutations predispose to PE, such as “factor V Leiden” and the “prothrombin gene mutation.”
Pulmonary Embolism section was last modified: March 10, 2008 - 11:58 am
