At the outset, I’d like to say that this video is not about politics. Like all of my videos, it’s about educating the public on important health issues.

I was saddened to hear about the sudden passing of Senator Lindsey Graham. Regardless of our political beliefs, this is first and foremost a human tragedy. He served our nation in the United States Air Force and devoted decades to public service. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched.

As of today, no official cause of death has been released. We know he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest, but it’s important to understand that cardiac arrest is not a diagnosis. It is the final event that can result from many different medical conditions, including a heart attack, dangerous heart rhythm disturbances, cardiomyopathy, an aortic catastrophe, or a pulmonary embolism.

Rather than speculate before the facts are known, I’d like to use this opportunity to discuss one potentially preventable medical condition: pulmonary embolism (PE).

What Is a Pulmonary Embolism?

A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot, usually beginning as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the legs, breaks loose and travels to the lungs.

A large clot can block blood flow through the lungs, causing sudden collapse, cardiac arrest, and, tragically, death.

Who Is at Risk?

One recognized risk factor for developing a DVT is prolonged immobility, especially during long airplane flights or extended travel.

Most travelers will never develop a blood clot, but the risk is increased in people who have:

• A previous DVT or pulmonary embolism
• Recent surgery
• Active cancer
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Inherited clotting disorders
• Estrogen use
• Certain other medical conditions