APS is an autoimmune condition that is estimated to affect around 600,000 people in the UK. It is where anti phospholipid antibodies start attacking proteins and fats called phospholipids in the blood cells. Due to the phospholipids being attacked by these harmful antibodies, the blood starts becoming excessively “sticky”, resulting in a higher risk of clotting. This can lead to strokes, DVTs and heart attacks in 1 in 6 people under 50.It is also a cause of miscarriages in early stage pregnancies.

Unfortunately, many people suffer with APS without it being recognised or diagnosed  as it is a lesser researched condition. APS can affect all ages, from infancy to old age. The majority of people are diagnosed between 20 and 50 years old. It is also more common among women -for every two men with APS, there are seven women affected. 

There is currently no cure for APS and the only treatments available are anticoagulants which aim to thin the blood and thereby prevent clotting.