Varicose veins: a risk factor for atherosclerotic disease in middle-aged men?

The prevalence of varicose veins was higher among lower social subjects and was positively associated with a body-mass index, cigarette consumption and diastolic blood pressure. A detailed dietary survey in a subsample of the population showed a significantly higher total calory intake in men with varicose veins but no difference in the distribution of the various nutrients. During follow up for subsequent atherosclerotic disease (average 6.6 yrs), men with varicose veins were at a significantly higher risk for intermittent claudication and, at least in the lower social class, for hard coronary heart disease. No association was found with angina pectoris incidence.