Call to Action for African Americans at Higher Risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Call to Action to Raise Awareness and Help Prevent Deaths

WHAT

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE) can be prevented, yet these conditions are responsible for at least 100,000 deaths a year in the U.S.

Approximately 350,000 to 600,000 Americans suffer from DVT and PE each year and African Americans have a significantly higher risk of developing these conditions, compared with other ethnic populations.

A call for awareness and action on the serious but often preventable impact of DVT and PE is being announced in Washington, D.C. on September 17, 2009. This announcement is being made jointly through the Venous Disease Coalition (VDC) and the Office of Minority Health at the Department of Health and Human Services.

To reduce the number of deaths and serious complications caused by these conditions, both organizations are seeking greater public awareness of DVT and PE. A new “Pause for Prevention” risk assessment tool will be announced at the event to help people better understand their risk factors for DVT and how to reduce them.

WHO

Dr. Garth Graham, M.D., M.P.H. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Minority Health and Director of the Office of Minority Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Traci Wilkes Smith, 33-year-old attorney from New York City, who suffered from DVT and PE

WHEN

Thursday, September 17, 2009 from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm (Dr. Graham’s Presentation 9:10 am – 10:00 am)
Light refreshments will be provided
If you are unable to attend the meeting, we would be delighted to schedule a phone interview with either or both of the spokespeople

WHERE

Venous Disease Coalition Annual Meeting

Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Washington Room

2799 Jefferson Davis Highway

Arlington, VA 22202

For further information on the Venous Disease Coalition visit http://www.venousdiseasecoalition.org/