1. Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel which can prevent normal blood flow. It is a leading cause of death in western countries. 2. When clots form in veins they cause deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolisms, while arterial clots cause heart attacks and strokes. Those at highest risk include those with atrial fibrillation, history of stroke, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or those having certain surgeries. 3. Anticoagulants like heparin, warfarin, and newer oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are used to prevent clotting and treat existing clots.