Factor V Leiden

Nowadays, thanks to coronavirus most people know what a blood clot is. Well, today I would like to talk about a genetic mutation that increases the chances of developing thrombophilia. A mutation in the Factor V called Factor V Leiden. This condition was first discovered in 1994. In the past decades it has gained increasing attention since this condition is the most common inherited form of thrombophilia, with a prevalence of 3% to 8% in Caucasian population. In patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) this prevalence increases to 50%. Despite, these elevated percentages of prevalence, very few people are aware of the elevated risk they have to develop thrombophilia. Factor V is a hidden disorder. It will not be exposed until the affected person or a family member has suffered an episode of thrombosis. This is a delicate situation given the fact that other risk factors such as obesity, older age, surgery, intake of oral-contraceptives, pregnancy, prolonged travel or little mobility increases significantly the risk of developing thrombosis for factor V Leiden carriers. Some of these extra risks factors cannot be avoided, but being informed of the condition might help prevent the possibility of developing VTE. As in many other instances, it is important to remember to keep a healthy lifestyle to maintain virus and diseases away.