Who is currently dying from pulmonary embolism? Analysis of the US National Vital Statistics System

The results of our epidemiologic analysis reveal that male sex and old age are confirmed to be two factors strongly associated with the risk of dying from pulmonary embolism. In line with previous findings, we also showed that the current risk of death is higher in hospitalized patients and in those admitted to the emergency department, accounting for over 70% of all deaths. Nevertheless, a relevant 17% of deaths because of pulmonary embolism were still found to occur at home, where adherence to prophylaxis (e.g. avoidance of prolonged immobility, use of anticoagulants, compression stockings, etc.) is reportedly lower due to differences in patient monitoring, support, and access to resources. This last aspect calls for reinforced education of outpatients at increased risk of pulmonary embolism about the importance of thromboprophylaxis.