Theepidemiology ofvaricose veins A surveyinwesternJerusalem

SUMMARY The prevalence and correlates of varicose veins were investigated in a community surveyina neighbourhoodof western Jerusalemin 1969-71. Theprevalence was 10% amongmen and29% amongwomen aged 15 and over; it rose with age in each sex. In both sexes, significantassociations were foundwithstanding at workandwithregionofbirth. Among women, varicoseveins were associatedwithweight,thewearingof corsets, andhaving ever been pregnant. Among men, there wasan association with inguinal hernia. Thefindings support the aetiological role ofprolonged standing and raised intra-abdominal pressure. Varicose veins were relatively uncommonamong NorthAfrican-born men and women aged45and over. Thisfinding,which was not accounted for bythe other observed associations, is consistent with the possible aetiologicalrole ofexperiences before immigration, such as behavioural patterns laid downin early life. Varicose veins do not threaten life and are seldomdisabling, but they cause a considerable demandformedicalcare. DuringoneyearintheUnitedStatesofAmericaonepersonper100ofthepopulation