Albumin, oral contraceptives, and venous thromboembolism risk in astronauts
Sara R. Zwart, Serena M. Auñón-Chancellor, Martina Heer, M. Mark Melin, Scott M. Smith
Abstract
We report here evidence of an association between oral contraceptive use and serum albumin, among other factors, which potentially increase the risk of venous thromboembolism in astronauts. These findings highlight potential risks to astronaut health while providing potential alternative countermeasures for decreasing VTE risk during spaceflight. These findings also highlight an underrecognized potential mechanism for hypoalbuminemia to increase VTE risk in terrestrial populations.
Topics & Concepts
MedicinePhysiologyInternal medicineSpaceflightBlood viscosityClotting factorEndocrinologyEngineeringAerospace engineeringSpaceflight effects on biologyHigh Altitude and HypoxiaClimate Change and Health Impacts