Binge-watching increases rick of venous thromboembolism

According to new study presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2017, watching TV considerably boosts the risk of cardiovascular disease

Besides causing addictions, it is already known that the TV set is also responsible for triggering an increased risk of arterial clots development leading to heart disease.

Moreover, according to latest research, the activity can as well raise the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in the limbs, lungs or pelvis.

As official figures show, more than half a million people in the U.S. develop VTE each year. Therefore, the sidease’s incidence is similar to the one of heart attack or stroke.

As the co-author of the study Mary Cushman from the Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington explains, the problem is not watching TV, but the amount of time people spend o their couches without moving. In addition, significant quantities of snacks can also be a trigger.

The research, named the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study, assessed 15.158 middle-aged men and women. According to the results, both VTE and obesity risks grew with more TV watching.
As an advice, the authors of the study recommend using the treadmill or the stationary bicycle at the same time, or simply taking regular walks outdoors.

In addition, health care experts should ask their patients about their lifestyle more often and encourage them to get involved into different fitness routines. Blood-thinning medication or compression stockings can as well be alternative solutions.