The work described in this thesis had two objectives, specifically focusing on people aged 70 years and older: first, we aimed to investigate the associations between several thrombosis-related... Show moreThe work described in this thesis had two objectives, specifically focusing on people aged 70 years and older: first, we aimed to investigate the associations between several thrombosis-related risk factors described in young and middle-aged populations and the risk of venous thrombosis (VT) in the elderly; second, we aimed to provide insight into several long-term consequences (i.e., health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and long-term risk of mortality) after a first VT at old age. Show less
The studies described in this thesis had two main aims: 1) To study the quality of life of patients with venous thrombosis and to examine the role of illness perceptions in explaining the quality... Show moreThe studies described in this thesis had two main aims: 1) To study the quality of life of patients with venous thrombosis and to examine the role of illness perceptions in explaining the quality of life of these patients. 2) To assess the psychological consequences of genetic testing for thrombophilia, using the Common-Sense Model (Leventhal et al.., 1984) as a theoretical framework.The studies performed to assess aim 1 form the first part of the thesis and show that the effect of venous thrombosis on quality of life should not be underestimated, even some years after the venous thrombosis. Furthermore, results give an indication that besides the presence of the postthrombotic syndrome, illness perceptions may help to explain quality of life in patients with venous thrombosis.In the second part of the thesis aim 2 is addressed. Genetic testing for thrombophilia does not have many adverse psychological consequences. However, certain vulnerable individuals may still experience considerable worry about getting venous thrombosis. Furthermore, results indicate that the Common-Sense Model can act as a useful framework to enhance understanding of how factors contribute to influence psychological response to risk of disease. Show less
