A recent study featured in the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2017 found that prolonged exposure to television raises the chances of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE). Experts say that results might help researchers find a way to curb cases of VTE, which is a growing health concern that affects about 600,000 people in the country.
Cardiac Output, Venous Return, and Their Regulation
Watching Too Much TV Raises the Risk of Blood Clots, Study Says
1. Watching Too Much TV
Raises the Risk
of Blood Clots,
Study Says
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2. A recent study featured in the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2017 found
that prolonged exposure to television raises the chances of developing venous
thromboembolism (VTE). Experts say that results might help researchers find a way to curb
cases of VTE, which is a growing health concern that affects about 600,000 people in the
country.
Venous Thromboembolism
VTE refers to many types of diseases involving blood clots in veins, such as deep vein
thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). A DVT arises when a blood clot develops
in the deep veins of the arms and legs. The patient will suffer from PE, meanwhile, if the
DVT breaks off from the vein’s walls, travels to the lungs, and blocks blood supply.
Common causes include surgery, cancer, immobilization, hospitalization, and advanced age.
Researchers at the University of Vermont claimed that watching TV for too long could cause
VTE, too.
3. Link between Television Time and VTE
After surveying more than 15,000 middle-aged participants, researchers found that people
who watched TV more than the average were 1.7 times more likely to develop blood clots
than those who had moderate to non-existent viewing habits. They found an equally strong
link in both DVT and PE cases. The chances of VTE were high even if the participants
engaged in the recommended levels of physical activity in between instances.
Long Periods of Inactivity
Mary Cushman, the lead author of the study, claimed that sitting for long periods is the
main culprit. The underlying reasons are still unclear, though. Some scientists posit that
sitting leads to insulin sensitivity, while some theorize that it decreases one’s net calorie
expenditures.
Whatever the cause, experts advise TV viewers to avoid a stationary position for too long.
For instance, they could put a treadmill or stationary bike in front of the screen. People
could also take 30-minute walking breaks. Not only would an active lifestyle decrease one’s
risk of diseases, but it would also increase endurance and aid with weight loss.
Experts claim that studies about sitting could help people craft guidelines on recommended
physical activity. They stated, however, that more research is needed to verify the results.
