How common are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are common.
About 70 million people in the United States have at least one varicose vein.1
Varicose veins are more common in women than men. About 2 in 10 to 3 in 10 women get varicose veins, compared with about 1 in 10 to 2 in 10 men.1 2
Older people are more likely to have varicose veins than younger people. But you can still get varicose veins when you are young. About 20 percent of women in their 30s have varicose veins, but only 3 percent of men of the same age have varicose veins.2
Sources for the information on this page:
- Callam MJ. Epidemiology of varicose veins. British Journal of Surgery. 1994; 81:167-173.
- Kurz X, Kahn SR, Abenhaim L, et al. Chronic venous disorders of the leg: epidemiology, outcomes, diagnosis and management: summary of an evidence-based report of the VEINES task force: Venous Insufficiency Epidemiologic and Economic Studies. International Angiology. 1999; 18: 83-102.
This information was last updated in Jan 03, 2008
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This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved. |
