Every September, we join the global campaign to raise awareness about vascular diseases. This initiative aims to bring these conditions to the forefront and offer support to those affected by them. Promoting general knowledge about the circulatory system and the care of veins and arteries is key to fostering scientific progress in the development of new therapies, treatments, and prevention methods. Similarly, providing those affected and their loved ones with educational resources on cardiovascular health is essential to ensuring greater longevity and well-being.
To mark World Vascular Disease Month, the AGL Association has organized two events. The first is a conference on chronic venous insufficiency, featuring several specialists in this condition, and the second is a dragon boat river tour along the Ulla River as it flows through Pontecesures. The main objective of the Chronic Venous Insufficiency Conference is to share the speakers’ experience and knowledge. The event is aimed at healthcare professionals and students, those affected by the condition, and the general public. The Conference has official health recognition granted by the Galician Regional Ministry of Health. For its part, the Dragon Boat River Tour aims to raise awareness of lymphedema, lipedema, and chronic venous insufficiency, as well as to contribute to their prevention and treatment.
WHAT IS A VASCULAR DISEASE?
The term “vascular disease” refers to the range of organic and functional disorders that affect the circulatory system, which consists of an extensive network of arteries and veins distributed throughout the body. Although people of any age, gender, or ethnic group can develop vascular diseases, certain factors increase the risk of circulatory system disorders. These factors include age, family history, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, occupational factors, and certain underlying medical conditions.
Vascular diseases include Chronic Venous Disease (CVD), Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), arterial diseases, blood clotting disorders—such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)—Raynaud’s disease, and Lymphedema, among others. For more information on vascular diseases, click HERE.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS?
The treatment of chronic venous disease (CVD) should be aimed at controlling venous hypertension and reducing the endothelial damage and inflammation resulting from this condition. Venous disorders can be managed through lifestyle modifications, conservative medical interventions, and, when indicated, surgical procedures. Medications, compression therapy, and exercise can help improve symptoms; however, in certain cases, more intensive treatments are necessary to restore venous health and function.
Venoactive drugs, also known as phlebotonics, constitute a heterogeneous group of synthetic or plant-derived medications. Various clinical trials have demonstrated their efficacy in reducing edema (Stage C3) and alleviating venous symptoms—such as heaviness, pain, a sensation of swelling, cramps, burning, and itching—across the various clinical stages (C0s–C6s) of chronic venous disease. Furthermore, numerous studies have shown that these drugs promote the healing of venous ulcers when administered in conjunction with compression therapy. Therefore, they constitute an important component of treatment for people affected by this disease.
Compression therapy (CT) is a well-established therapeutic intervention for the treatment of chronic venous disease. Its mechanism of action involves applying external pressure to the lower extremities to counteract the effects of gravity on venous return. In this way, it helps prevent an increase in venous pressure and reduces stress on the vascular wall. In addition, compression therapy promotes blood circulation in the lower legs, ankles, and feet. It is considered effective in relieving pain and edema associated with circulatory disorders, such as chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins.
Both chronic venous disease (CVD) and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) are common conditions in the general population. They typically manifest in early adulthood and increase in prevalence and severity with aging. The prevalence of these conditions is higher in Western countries. However, due to persistent underdiagnosis and undertreatment in many countries, up-to-date patient registries are not available. Consequently, the global prevalence of these conditions is likely underestimated.
