DEAR DR. GOTT:
I am writing in response to the gentleman in a recent column who said he had “sticky blood”.

I have factor V, double genetics which makes me a homozygote. There are many people who have had blood clots and are still under diagnosed for this genetic condition. Many doctors are unaware that it even exists. I was diagnosed after a family doctor recommended I have genetic testing following a blood clot in my leg at age 40. I am now 43 and live knowing the health risks of having homozygous factor V. None of them are good.

I am currently writing a college research paper on factor V and have learned how dangerous it can actually be. Please run a column on this matter to help educate those who have been afflicted by blood clots or have a strong family history such as mine does. [Read more...]