Risk Factors and Clinical Severity in Chronic Venous Disease: A New Look

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study is to investigate the presence of various factors in individuals diagnosed with chronic venous disease (CVD), as compared to a control group. These factors include both those that have been empirically validated and those that remain unproven or have received less study. The second objective was to ascertain the factors influencing disease severity among patients with CVD. METHODS: A questionnaire was employed to collect data on risk factors, anthropometrics, and medical history. The study involved 209 CVD patients and 194 controls. The Venous Clinical Severity Score and the Clinical, Etiologic, Anatomic and Pathophysiologic Classification were utilized to evaluate the severity of the disease. RESULTS: Regular exercise was more prevalent in the control group (p = 0.001), while prolonged sitting/standing (> 8 h) was more prevalent in the patient group (p < 0.001). Patients had higher levels of obesity and hypertension (p < 0.001). Female gender (p = 0.010) and family history of varicose veins (p = 0.002) contributed to mild venous disease. Prior deep vein thrombosis (p < 0.001), obesity (p = 0.031), extended sitting/standing (p = 0.035), inactivity (p = 0.001), and family history of varicose veins (p < 0.001) were associated with severe venous disease. Prior thrombosis was found to be associated with a more active utilization of compression therapy (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The findings emphasize that specific risk factors, including weight and physical inactivity, which are modifiable, correlate strongly with severe venous disease. Disease outcomes may improve through identification and modification of these factors.