Blood clots are a serious health problem that can affect people of all ages, although the risk becomes higher as people get older. A blood clot forms when blood thickens and sticks together, creating a blockage inside a blood vessel.
This can stop normal blood flow and lead to dangerous conditions. When clots happen in arteries, they can cause heart attacks or strokes. When they form in veins, especially in the legs, the condition is called venous thrombosis. If a clot travels from the leg to the lungs, it can cause a life-threatening condition known as pulmonary embolism.
Now, new research from scientists at Lund University in Sweden has found that certain genes can greatly increase the risk of developing these clots. The study shows that some people may have a much higher risk simply because of their genetic makeup. The findings were published after researchers carefully studied thousands of people over many years.
The research team examined data from about 30,000 participants in the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study. They focused on 27 genes that are known to be linked to blood clotting. After analyzing the data, they identified three important genetic variants that raise the risk of venous blood clots.
These genes are called ABO, F8, and VWF. Each of these genes increased the risk by about 10 to 30 percent on its own. However, when several of these risk genes were present together, the effect became much stronger. People who carried five of these genetic risk factors had up to a 180 percent higher chance of developing a blood clot.
This discovery helps explain why some people develop blood clots even when they seem otherwise healthy. It also shows that genetics plays a larger role than many people realize. One well-known example of a genetic risk is a condition called Factor V Leiden.
This mutation affects how the body controls clotting and is especially common in people of European background. It makes the blood more likely to clot because it reduces the effect of a natural protein that normally prevents excessive clotting.
In the past, this trait may have been helpful because it reduced bleeding after injuries. However, in modern life, where people often sit for long periods and are less physically active, this same trait can increase health risks.
The newly discovered gene variants are different because they are found in many populations around the world, not just in Europe. This means the findings could be important for people globally.
Venous thrombosis is more common than many people think. In Sweden alone, more than 10,000 people are affected each year. The risk is higher in people who are older, overweight, or very tall.
Tall people may have slower blood flow in their legs because blood has to travel a longer distance back to the heart. Obesity can also slow blood flow and change the balance of clotting factors in the body.
Lifestyle factors also play a role. Long periods of sitting, such as during long flights or bed rest after surgery, can increase the risk of clots. Pregnancy is another time when the risk is higher because the body naturally increases clotting ability to prevent bleeding during childbirth. Diet may also have an influence.
Some studies suggest that eating large amounts of ultra-processed foods may slightly increase risk, while diets rich in plant foods and healthy fats may help lower it. For example, people who eat more fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids may have a lower risk.
Even though genetics cannot be changed, there are many ways to reduce the overall risk of blood clots. Staying active is one of the most important steps. Regular movement helps keep blood flowing properly.
Wearing support stockings can also help if someone needs to sit or stand for long periods. Doctors may prescribe blood-thinning medicines after surgery or during high-risk situations. Avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet can all help protect against clots.
The researchers believe that in the future, doctors may use genetic information to better decide how long patients should take blood-thinning medication after a clot. This could lead to more personalized treatment and better outcomes.
Overall, this study provides important new insight into how blood clots form and why some people are more at risk than others. By understanding both genetic and lifestyle factors, people can take steps to protect their health and reduce the risk of serious complications.
If you care about heart disease, please read studies that herbal supplements could harm your heart rhythm, and how eating eggs can help reduce heart disease risk.
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