According to Mr. Toru Shirakawa, a public health research fellow at Osaka University in Japan, those who watch television for prolonged periods are increasing their chance of inducing a lethal condition called pulmonary embolism (PE). Five or more hours of television per day may double the risk of fatal pulmonary embolism as opposed to watching less than two and a half hours daily.

For those under 60 years of age, the findings are even more alarming. Those in this age group who watch between two and a half to five hours of television per day are three times more likely to suffer a pulmonary embolism compared to those in the same age group who watch two and half hours or less. Furthermore, those below sixty who watch more than five hours of television per day are six times more likely to suffer a pulmonary embolism compared to those who watch two and half hours or less.

Pulmonary Embolism (PE) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a sudden blockage in a lung artery. The blockage is actually a blood clot or blood clots that have traveled to the lungs from another part of the body. These traveling blood clots commonly form in the deep veins of the legs, and are called a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Because a PE can block the flow of blood to the lungs, it can be disabling or fatal.

Some pulmonary embolism victims may experience PE symptoms while others may experience no symptoms at all. In addition, some PE victims experience DVT symptoms only. Because a PE is a medical emergency, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any PE or DVT symptoms.

Symptoms of pulmonary embolism may include:

•Chest pain
•Sudden shortness of breath or trouble breathing
•Cough or cough with blood
•Wheezing
•Irregular heart beat (arrhythmia)
•Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
•Bluish tint to skin, or paleness
•Anxiety
•Sweating
•Increased or rapid breathing
•Increased heart rate
•Fever

For more information on Pulmonary Embolisms, visit our Pulmonary Embolism Page.

Study Associates Average T.V. Time with Cases of Pulmonary Embolism

Shirakawa shared these findings with the European Congress of Cardiology today, citing the longevity and accuracy of his research; the study had been conducted over an 18-year period, tracking over 86,000 people. Mr. Shirawaka clarified that the study’s conclusion was found after adjusting their results for age at baseline, gender, history of hypertension, history of diabetes, smoking status, drinking status, body mass index, walking and sports habits and menopausal status.

Mr Shirakawa summarized, “We showed that prolonged television viewing may be a risky behavior for death from pulmonary embolism.” Shirawaka continues to explain, “Leg immobility during television viewing may in part explain the finding. To prevent the occurrence of pulmonary embolism, we recommend the […] preventive behavior […] That is, take a break, stand up, and walk around during the television viewing. Drinking water for preventing dehydration is also important.”

Obtain a Free Pulmonary Embolism Lawsuit Case Evaluation

Attorney Eric Weinberg represents medical malpractice victims, including those who have suffered the consequences of a pulmonary embolism or DVT. Our firm also represents individuals who have suffered a blood clot or pulmonary embolism related to medication use, including for example, testosterone and Yaz. For a free legal case evaluation, please call our firm 24/7, toll free at 1-877-934-6274. Please see The Weinberg Law Firm to learn more about our legal services.