The older we are, the more we are exposed to varicose veins? British researchers at Stanford University claim that being tall is a risk factor for the development of varicose veins.
“We not only found an association between size and varicose veins, but the genetic studies we conducted [montrent] a causal link, “observes on CNN Dr. Nicholas Leeper, associate professor of surgery and cardiovascular medicine, who led the study published in the journal Circulation. “This suggests that the genes and pathways that drive human height are also likely to cause varicose veins.”
Based on genetic data from 502,619 people aged 40 to 69, of whom 9,577 had venous disease, the researchers identified 30 genetic regions associated with varicose veins. They then looked at the risk factors using an artificial intelligence model.
Already established risk factors have been highlighted such as age, heredity, overweight, pregnancy, smoking,hormone therapy, history of deep vein thrombosis or leg surgery.
A link between size and varicose veins still unexplained
More surprisingly, the researchers observed an unexpected correlation between height and the appearance of varicose veins: tall people were more at risk of varicose veins. Their finding was confirmed using a statistical technique called Mendelian randomization. “A handful of studies conducted 20 or 30 years ago had suggested a link,” said Dr Leeper quoted by CNN. “We do not understand [cette relation]. Maybe taller people are affected by gravity or there could be something in the lining of the blood vessels. “
Varicose veins correspond to an abnormal and permanent dilation of a vein. This abnormal and tortuous deformity manifests itself on the lower limbs. Varicose veins are often a symptom of venous insufficiency chronic, recalls the ameli.fr website . Varicose veins are usually benign. In some cases they can lead to more serious health problems, such as wounds, ulcers and blood clots, the most serious complication being deep vein thrombosis(DVT), the formation of a blood clot in one or more of the deep veins.
In France 20 to 35% of the general population is affected by varicose veins, according to the French society of phlebology.
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