World Thrombosis Day campaign focuses on women's health risks

World Thrombosis Day is observed annually on October 13 to raise global awareness about blood clots, a condition responsible for one in four deaths worldwide. Initiated by the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH), the date honors the birth of Dr. Rudolf Virchow, the pathologist who identified the mechanisms of clot formation.

The 2026 campaign, themed ‘From Head to Toe, Take Control: Prevent Thrombosis, Protect Your Health’, places a specific focus on women's health. Experts highlight that women face unique risks due to hormonal changes, pregnancy, the postpartum period, and the use of certain contraceptives. During pregnancy, women are approximately five times more likely to develop a blood clot.

Thrombosis can manifest as arterial thrombosis, linked to heart attacks and strokes, or venous thrombosis, such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism. Other high-risk groups include cancer patients, as certain malignancies and treatments can significantly affect blood coagulation. Common warning signs include swelling, pain, or sudden shortness of breath.