Pulmonary embolism is the third-leading cause of cardiovascular death in the U.S. Knowing the symptoms, risk factors, and the latest pulmonary embolism statistics can help you recognize early signs and seek treatment right away.
We’re reviewing the most current data on PE prevalence, mortality, recurrence, complications, long-term effects, and how rates vary by age, sex, race, and other high-risk groups.
At Delaware Advanced Vein Center, cardiologist Dr. Anthony Alfieri provides treatment for spider veins, varicose veins, and deep vein thrombosis to improve circulation, address underlying vein problems, and reduce your risk of dangerous blood clots that can travel to the lungs.
Concerned about your blood clot risk? Book your consultation today and take a proactive approach to protecting your vein health.
Pulmonary Embolism Prevalence and Mortality
How many people die from pulmonary embolism each year in the United States?
Pulmonary embolism causes approximately 100,000 deaths each year in the United States.
How many cases of DVT and pulmonary embolism occur worldwide each year?
More than 10 million cases of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are diagnosed worldwide each year.
What is the mortality rate for untreated versus treated pulmonary embolism?
About 30% of patients with untreated pulmonary embolism die, compared with about 8% of patients who receive timely treatment.
Are pulmonary embolism deaths increasing among younger adults?
From 2008 to 2018, pulmonary embolism deaths among adults ages 25 to 64 increased by an average of 2.1% per year.
What percentage of pregnancy-associated deaths are caused by pulmonary embolism?
Pulmonary embolism is responsible for about 9% of pregnancy-associated deaths.
Pulmonary Embolism Signs, Complications, and Long-Term Effects
What are the most common signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism?
The most common signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism include:
- Dyspnea (shortness of breath): 73% of patients
- Tachypnea (rapid breathing): 54%
- Chest pain: 44%
- Tachycardia (rapid heart rate): 24%
What percentage of pulmonary embolism cases are complicated by pulmonary infarction?
Pulmonary infarction occurs in an estimated 16% to 31% of pulmonary embolism cases.
What percentage of patients with acute pulmonary embolism develop chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension?
About 1% to 3% of patients with acute pulmonary embolism develop chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.
How common are long-term exercise limitations after pulmonary embolism?
Up to 50% of patients who have had a pulmonary embolism may experience ongoing exercise limitations.
How often do blood clots come back after a DVT or pulmonary embolism?
About 33% of people who have a deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism will experience another blood clot or blockage within 10 years.
Pulmonary Embolism by Age, Sex, and Race
Is pulmonary embolism more common in older women than older men?
Among adults older than 70, pulmonary embolism is more common in women, who account for about 58% of PE cases in this age group.
Do Black patients with acute pulmonary embolism have a higher mortality rate than White patients?
Among patients with acute pulmonary embolism, Black patients had a nearly 50% higher all-cause mortality rate than White patients, at 15.0% versus 10.7%.
How does the prevalence of recurring pediatric pulmonary embolisms vary by racial demographic?
One study found that pulmonary embolism recurrence was higher in Black children at 12% and Hispanic children at 10.7%, compared with 8% in White children.
Pulmonary Embolism in Children
How often does pulmonary embolism go undiagnosed in children who have it?
In a study of 38 pediatric pulmonary embolism cases identified at autopsy, PE was included in the initial differential diagnosis in only 15% of children.
Pulmonary Embolism in High-Risk Groups
How does socioeconomic status affect hospital readmission after pulmonary embolism?
Among Medicare patients hospitalized for pulmonary embolism, the 90-day readmission rate was 32.4% for socioeconomically disadvantaged patients compared with 24.1% for other patients.
How common is incidental pulmonary embolism in cancer patients?
Incidental or unsuspected pulmonary embolism is found in about 1% to 5% of CT scans performed for other reasons in patients with cancer.
Prevent Blood Clots with Cardiologist-Led Vein Care
Don’t ignore leg swelling, pain, or other signs that could point to an underlying vein condition.
At Delaware Advanced Vein Center, cardiologist Dr. Anthony Alfieri provides advanced vein evaluations and minimally invasive treatment to improve circulation, address blood clot risks, and protect your long-term vein health.
Schedule your consultation today and take a proactive step toward healthier circulation.
Sources
- Vrinda Vyas. “Acute Pulmonary Embolism.” National Library of Medicine. December 11, 2024.
- Edwin A. Takahashi, MD. “Disparities in Current Pulmonary Embolism Management and Outcomes: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association.” American Heart Association. March 20, 2025.
- American Lung Association. “Learn About Pulmonary Embolism.” March 3, 2026.
- Michael Merschel. “Pulmonary embolism is common and can be deadly, but few know the signs.” American Heart Association. November 23, 2021.
- Aaron S. Weinberg, MD. “Pulmonary Embolism: An International Crisis.” Endovascular Today. July 2019.