Epidemiology of leg ulcers. Critical Appraisal

Abstract

Venous ulcers occur in 0.1-0.6% of the population in Western countries and they are more prevalent with increasing age and presence of other risk factors of the patient. The majority of patients affected by venous ulcers present with a superficial venous insufficiency, which should have already been treated and which is imperative to treat. Based on the discussion of the epidemiologic data, the authors express their criticism towards misguided aspects of some publications, which have some consecutive risks to our patients, as statisticians and economists tend to monopolize and impose rules in health.