December 14, 2009
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The UAB Vein Clinic is offering a free community vein screening in UAB Hospital's North Pavilion Atrium Friday, Dec. 18 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., as part of a national venous screening program sponsored by the American Venous Forum.
Blood clots in leg veins kill more than 100,000 Americans each year. Diseases of the veins also can cause other serious conditions, including varicose veins, chronic leg swelling and leg ulcers, yet most people are unaware of the importance of healthy veins. Even fewer know that vein health can be evaluated quickly and easily in a doctor's office. The screening program is designed to assess deep venous obstruction and venous insufficiency. It also assesses the health of the leg veins and the risk of getting a blood clot in these veins.
"Many people know about heart disease and its impact, but few people appreciate the seriousness of major venous diseases," said UAB vascular surgeon Marc Passman, M.D. "Through this screening program we hope to educate the public about venous health care problems, risk factors, prevention and treatment options."
Passman said people most at risk for venous disease include men and women ages 40 and older with leg pain or swelling, or anyone with a family history of venous disease such as blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) or varicose veins.
The free risk assessment screening includes a short, simple questionnaire that asks about medications and medical conditions that could increase the risk of blood clots in the leg veins. Participants will receive a risk score and a report card to take to their primary care provider. They also will receive detailed educational materials on venous health.
About the UAB Vein Clinic
The UAB Vein Clinic offers comprehensive evaluation, state-of-the-art treatments that provide the highest quality in both cosmetic and minimally invasive vein treatment options, compassionate care by medical professionals who specialize in vein disease and physicians who are certified in vascular surgery by the American Board of Surgery.