The risk for varicose veins increases with age due to “wear and tear” on the veins and an increase in cardiovascular disease risk factors. Less than 1% of men and 10% of women under the age of 30 are estimated to have varicose veins, but the prevalence increases to 57% of men and 77% of women over the age of 70.
A family history of varicose veins, female sex, overweight/obesity, pregnancy (multiple pregnancies further elevates risk), and being in an occupation that requires standing or sitting for extended periods of time or lifting heavy objects are risk factors for developing varicose veins.[1] A few studies have also indicated that varicose veins are associated with smoking, reduced physical activity, oral contraceptive use and hormone replacement therapy, and a history of diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), and injury to the extremities.[2]