Raising awareness about blood clots

If you have seen any other of my posts about the anniversaries and annual observances in Japan on a given date, you can probably tell that a lot of them are light-hearted and a bit of fun. Some are, quite frankly, pointless! But thankfully, some of them have a useful purpose too. Take for example, one of today's anniversaries...

Today, and January 20th annually, is Blood Clot Prevention Day 血栓予防の日 (Kessen yobou no hi). The anniversary was created by the Japan Natto Kinase Association in the hope of raising awareness about circulatory health during the coldest part of winter. Thus, they chose the date as January 20th, the same day as the start of "Daikan". See my previous post for more information about "daikan". 

Reportedly, low temperatures make blood flow sluggish and increase the risk of clot formation. But according to the Japan Natto Kinase Association, natto kinase which is an enzyme found in the sticky strands of natto, helps break down fibrin, which is the protein that forms clots. The registration of the anniversary may not have been entirely altruistic, but it does serve as an important reminder to take care of your circulation during the coldest months.