VIDEO: ‘Binge-watching’ boosts risk for deep vein thrombosis

ANAHEIM, Calif. — In this Cardiology Today video perspective, John P. Higgins, MD, MBA, discusses a study that explored the relationship between “binge-watching” TV and risk for deep vein thrombosis.

The study, presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, showed that people who were regular TV watchers were almost twice as likely to experience DVT or blood clots in their legs. This was especially true for those who watched TV for longer lengths of time — binge-watching.

Binge-watching is often associated with unhealthy habits, such as snacking, smoking or drinking, according to Higgins, who is professor of medicine at the McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, director of exercise physiology at the Memorial Hermann Ironman Sports Medicine Institute and chief of cardiology at Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital. Healthy alternatives may help people avoid health risks while watching TV.

“The most important thing is don’t plant yourself down for hours on end without getting up and doing something,” he said. “Some people might find that if they're watching TV, during the ads, get up and walk in place or do some sit-ups. But, break it up because otherwise, you might end up with a blood clot.”

Reference:

Cushman, M. Abstract S5169. Presented at: American Heart Association Scientific Sessions; Nov. 11-15, 2017; Anaheim, California.