The case for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in Africa

Abstract

While venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a well recognised occurrence in clinical practice in the developed world, with event rates of at least 2-3 million per year, little attention is paid to this entity in the developing world where the burden of infectious diseases and limited access to care have not recognised VTE as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. The opportunity for Africa to do better as the inevitable recognition of the consequence of VTE becomes more apparent is available using basic tools and therapies.