Epidemiology

Prevalence estimates vary based on population, selection criteria, disease definition, and imaging techniques. Generally, prevalence rates are higher in industrialised countries and in more developed regions.[4] Prevalence of visible varicose veins in the Western population aged over 15 years is 10% to 15% in men and 20% to 25% in women.[5] Prevalence rates in the US are 15% (range from 7% to 40%) in men and 27.7% (25% to 32%) in women.[6] Visible varicose veins are more prevalent in Hispanic people (26.3%) and less prevalent in Asian people (18.7%).[7]

The prevalence of varicose veins increases with age. In one study, 40-year-olds had a prevalence of 22%, 50-year-olds a prevalence of 35%, and 60-year-olds a prevalence of 41%.[8]

A genetic link has been suggested. The risk of varicose veins developing if both parents are affected is 90%; 62% risk if one parent is affected and female offspring; 25% risk if one parent is affected and male offspring; and if no parent is affected, the risk is 20%.[9]

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