The cherished comedic talent Catherine O’Hara, best known for her role in *Schitt’s Creek*, tragically passed away at the age of 71 due to a pulmonary embolism linked to her battle with rectal cancer. This life-threatening blood clotting condition, which results in over 36,000 fatalities annually in the US alone, is a stark reminder of the hidden dangers that cancer patients face beyond their primary illness.
Understanding Pulmonary Embolisms
A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot obstructs blood flow to the lungs, leading to serious health complications. Interestingly, while cancer significantly increases the risk of developing such clots, the actual incidence among non-hospitalised cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy is relatively low; only about three percent succumb to a pulmonary embolism. This percentage rises to seven percent for those requiring hospitalisation.
According to experts at the MD Anderson Cancer Center, the likelihood of clot formation escalates as cancer progresses. “The risk of clotting increases as the cancer grows and spreads in the body,” they explain, underscoring the importance of vigilance in monitoring cancer patients for potential complications.
The Cancer Connection
Certain cancers are particularly notorious for causing venous clots. Colorectal cancer, the same illness that O’Hara battled, is among those with a heightened risk. Other cancers linked to increased clot formation include acute leukaemia, brain cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, melanoma, pancreatic cancer, and various gynaecological cancers.
Multiple factors contribute to the risk of developing a pulmonary embolism in cancer patients. These include the treatments they undergo—such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy—as well as other health conditions like obesity, infections, and prolonged immobility. The complexity of the situation is compounded by the fact that in many cases, pinpointing a singular cause for a pulmonary embolism can be elusive.
Rising Rates and Concerning Trends
The prevalence of certain cancers, particularly among younger demographics, is on the rise, which could lead to increased instances of pulmonary embolisms. Notably, colorectal cancer is the only cancer type that has seen a rise in mortality rates from 1990 to 2023, becoming the leading cause of cancer deaths in individuals under 50, as reported by the American Cancer Society.
Recent studies have indicated a worrying upward trend in pulmonary embolism-related deaths among cancer patients, with research from 2025 revealing a spike from 2011 to 2020, even as overall cancer mortality rates declined. “These findings highlight a concerning increase in PE-related mortality in patients with cancer, indicating a need for further research and preventive interventions to improve outcomes,” the authors concluded.
Assessing Individual Risk Factors
Cancer patients should be aware of the signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, which can include difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, excessive sweating, and a feeling of chest pain. O’Hara, for instance, experienced severe breathing difficulties prior to her hospitalisation on January 30, ultimately leading to her death.
Certain risk factors can elevate an individual’s chances of suffering a pulmonary embolism. Older patients or those undergoing surgery, as well as individuals who are immobile or have central venous catheters, are particularly vulnerable. O’Hara’s diagnosis of dextrocardia, a congenital heart defect, further compounded her risk.
Despite the gravity of the situation, it is important to note that around 90 percent of patients treated for pulmonary embolisms do survive. However, subsequent occurrences can be more perilous.
Why it Matters
The tragic passing of Catherine O’Hara serves as a poignant reminder of the multifaceted challenges faced by cancer patients. As the rates of certain cancers rise and awareness about the risks of pulmonary embolisms increases, it becomes crucial for healthcare providers to implement preventive measures and educate patients about the potential hazards associated with their conditions. Understanding the complexities of cancer treatment and its complications can ultimately save lives and improve outcomes for those battling this devastating disease.
