O-71 The prevalence of Venous Thromboembolism among women using Oral Contraceptives in Trinidad and Tobago.
Author(s):
A F Williams-Persad, R Richardson, D Reverand, R Russell, A Ramsook, F Rege, A Roberts, M Roberly, K Ramsoomair
Year of Presentation:
2023
Objective: To assess the prevalence and cause of VTE development in women using Oral Contraceptives (OCs).
Methods: A cross-sectional study design among women between the ages 18-49-years-old using oral contraceptives. Convenient sampling utilizing an online questionnaire was distributed through the University of the West Indies and social media platforms with ethical approval from The UWI’s Ethics committee. Data analysis was completed using IBM SPSS ver. 28.0.1.0(142) software.
Results: Data from 80 participants was analysed with mean age 25.7 years, ethnicity 36% African, 36% Indian and 28% mixed race. Average BMI 24.5 kg/m² (SD ± 4.5) with 51.1% being either overweight (BMI 25 kg/m²- 29.9 kg/m²) or obese (BMI 30 kg/m² - 39.9 kg/m²). Among participants diagnosed with VTE (n = 5 (6%)) 100% used 3rd generation OCs, 66.7% were overweight and 33.7% were obese. No statistical significance (p-value > 0.05) between BMI and VTE diagnosis was found but a positive correlation (r = 0.280) was obtained. Prior knowledge of VTE as a complication of 86% with 51% claiming personal research and 18% from doctors.
Conclusion: Being overweight, the type of oral contraceptive used, in addition to, lifestyle habits and ethnicity places users at risk for developing venous thromboembolism. A regional study is recommended for more conclusive evidence.