September 2013 marks first ever Thrombosis Awareness Month in the state of Georgia

BOSTON, Sept. 12, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The North American Thrombosis Forum (NATF), a Boston-based non-profit organization, combined efforts with a group of patient advocates in Georgia to increase thrombosis education.  That goal was achieved, designating September as Thrombosis Awareness Month in the state of Georgia.

At a press conference at the Georgia State House on August 2, 2013, State Senator Renee Unterman announced the passing of a Resolution proclaiming September as Thrombosis Awareness Month, and recognized the NATF Georgia patient advocates for their dedication.  Over 30 guests attended the press conference, including CBS News Georgia, pharmaceutical industry representatives, and Georgia State Hospital Association officials. Sen. Unterman commended NATF and Georgia patient advocates, Atul Laddu, MD, Rajan Laddu, Amey Houde, and Amruta Houde, for spearheading this initiative.

"It just takes one person to make a difference, just one person, like Dr. Laddu and his family did," Senator Renee Unterman stated in an interview with NATF.  "They are making a difference in 9 million Georgians by raising awareness."

Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel causing partial or total obstruction, which can lead to serious and potentially fatal complications including pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs) or stroke.  Thrombosis affects up to 600,000 Americans each year, yet public awareness of the disease remains low.  The recent incidence of thrombosis among several public figures, including former Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, opera tenor and conductor Placido Domingo, and late actor, Dennis Farina, has brought some public attention to this important health issue.

About NATF   
NATF is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to fighting blood clots and saving lives through prevention and education.  NATF supports thrombosis-related programs, such as novel research projects, innovative educational programs, public policy initiatives, and patient advocacy.

To learn more, visit www.natfonline.org.

For more information, contact Erica Dour, Associate Director of Marketing and Communications, at (617) 730-4120 or [email protected].

SOURCE North American Thrombosis Forum