Venous Thromboembolism and Obesity
Venous thromboembolism, or VTE, means blood clots that form in a vein, most often in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or that travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Venous thromboembolism, or VTE, means blood clots that form in a vein, most often in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or that travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). Carrying excess weight raises the risk of these clots, especially after surgery or long periods of sitting still.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Obesity is an independent risk factor for venous thromboembolism, mediated by increased intra-abdominal pressure, venous stasis, a chronic pro-inflammatory and prothrombotic state, and reduced fibrinolysis. The risk rises with body mass index and is compounded by surgery, immobility and hormonal factors.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
Knowing this risk helps patients and doctors take preventive steps before procedures. At Accord Medical Clinic, weight management and pre-procedure assessment include clotting-risk awareness to keep you safe.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.