Vascular diseases and thrombosis cases rise in Brazil

Vascular diseases are seeing significant trends in Brazil, with a notable increase in deep vein thrombosis (DVT) cases among adolescents and young adults. According to data from the Unified Health System (SUS), there are approximately 200 hospitalizations related to DVT daily, with rising numbers in the 15–19 and 20–39 age groups.

Medical experts attribute this trend to lifestyle factors, including obesity, smoking, sedentary behavior, long periods of sitting, and the use of contraceptives. Symptoms such as persistent pain, swelling in one leg, or skin discoloration are often misidentified as muscle issues, leading to delayed diagnoses. Severe complications like pulmonary embolism can manifest through sudden shortness of breath or chest pain.

Additionally, vascular issues like varicose veins remain highly prevalent, with over 103,000 hospitalizations recorded in 2025. Health professionals emphasize that these conditions are not merely aesthetic concerns but can cause significant pain and reduced quality of life. The 'Agosto Azul e Vermelho' campaign aims to increase awareness regarding symptoms and available treatments.