OFMQ Supports DVT Awareness Month in Oklahoma

Oklahoma state legislators declared June DVT Awareness Month in Oklahoma, making our state one of just a few that have taken such steps to lead the charge in raising awareness for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), abnormal clotting of the blood that occurs most commonly in leg veins.  DVT is a condition of venous thromboembolism (VTE), the 3rd most common vascular disorder after heart disease and stroke, threatening the lives of 3000 Oklahomans each year.

OFMQ was on hand to support a press event at the state capital as OU Health Sciences Center researcher, Dr. Suman Rathbun, OUHSC College of Public Health Dean, Dr. Gary Raskob and State Health Commissioner Dr. Michael Crutcher discussed the disease, its risk factors and impact on Oklahoma’s citizens. Making a special appearance to help raise awareness about DVT was celebrity Isaac Hanson of the musical group Hanson. Hanson shared his personal experience with DVT which included surgery to remove potentially fatal blood clots in his arm and lungs.

Dr. Dale Bratzler, D.O., M.P.H., of Oklahoma Foundation for Medical Quality was recognized for his expertise in venous thromboembolic disease and for his participation at the event.

Oklahoma hospitals, physicians and patients will receive DVT educational materials in the month of June through the Venous Disease Coalition and the Oklahoma Hospital Association.

Read more about VTE and DVT in this downloadable brochure and at www.venousdiseasecoalition.org.