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Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Awareness Month

An awareness observance in March educating the public about deep vein thrombosis risks, symptoms, and prevention to reduce pulmonary embolism deaths.

Monday
1–31
March 2027
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team
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YEARLY DATEAll of March
OBSERVED INUnited States
CATEGORYAwareness
ORIGIN

Institutional Initiative

FOUNDING ENTITY
Coalition to Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis
FIRST OBSERVED
2003
HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

The Coalition to Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis established DVT Awareness Month in 2003 to educate the public on risks, symptoms, and prevention.

Institutional Recordvia news.sanofi.us
INTRO

Introduction

March 1 marks the beginning of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about this serious medical condition. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs. While it may not sound like the most exciting topic, it's important to spread knowledge about DVT because it affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated. So let's use this month as an opportunity to educate ourselves and others on how to prevent and detect DVT, while also supporting those who have been affected by it.

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TIMELINE

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Awareness Month Timeline

Phlegmasia Alba Dolens Discovery

Rudolf Virchow discovered Deep Vein Thrombosis under the term Phlegmasia alba dolens, signifying the importance of venous thrombosis for the first time.

Heparin Discovery

Heparin, an anticoagulant used in DVT treatment, was discovered in the 1920s by the medical research scientist Jay McLean.

Warfarin Introduction

Warfarin, an oral anticoagulant, was introduced into the market in the 1960s as a long-term treatment option for DVT patients.

Development of New Drugs

The 2000s saw the development and approval of new, more effective and safer anticoagulants for DVT treatment like Rivaroxaban and Dabigatran.

DVT Awareness Month Inception

The U.S. Senate officially declared March as Deep Vein Thrombosis Awareness Month in order to raise public awareness about this commonly occurring medical condition and its potentially fatal complications.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Awareness Month

EDITOR'S PICK

Participate in a virtual walk/run event

Many organizations host virtual walk/run events to raise awareness and funds for DVT. Join one and get some exercise while supporting a good cause.

SHARE

Share educational resources on social media

Spread awareness by sharing facts, statistics, and prevention tips on your social media accounts. Use hashtags like #DVTawarenessmonth to reach a larger audience.

HOST

Host a fundraiser for DVT research

Gather friends and family for a fundraiser, such as a bake sale or charity auction, to raise money for DVT research and support organizations that are working towards finding a cure.

ORGANIZE

Organize a community blood drive

Blood clots are a major risk factor for DVT. Help save lives by organizing a community blood drive and educating people about the importance of blood donation.

WEAR

Wear orange in support of DVT awareness

The color orange is associated with DVT awareness. Show your support by wearing something orange, like a ribbon or t-shirt, throughout the month of March.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Awareness Month is Important

It encourages people to prioritize their health

DVT Awareness Month serves as a reminder for people to take care of their bodies and stay vigilant about any potential health issues. It encourages individuals to understand their risk factors and seek medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms.

It raises awareness about a common and dangerous condition

Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, affects millions of people every year and can be life-threatening if left untreated. By having an entire month dedicated to raising awareness about DVT, more people will become educated about the symptoms, risks, and preventative measures they can take to protect themselves.

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