Pulmonary embolism, or PE, is a dangerous condition that affects up to 900,000 people in the United States each year, and as many as 100,000 Americans actually die of this condition. For 25% of them, sudden death is also the first symptom, and 10 to 30% will die within one month of diagnosis.

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is typically the result of Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – a blood clot developed in one of your legs, which travels to the lungs and blocks one of the pulmonary arteries. If left untreated, PE is a life-threatening condition and can potentially be fatal.

Contrary to popular belief, DVT and PE are not just a problem of seniors – more and more adults and young adults are being affected. Here are a few examples of famous people who struggled with this deadly condition.

Nick Cannon

The American rapper, actor, comedian, and former husband of Mariah Carey was hospitalized with blood clots in his lungs on Feb 17, 2012. His PE was reportedly caused by an autoimmune disease lupus nephritis which he was diagnosed with in March 2012.

Dennis Farina

The American actor became famous as Detective Joe Fontana on Law & Order. For Farina, pulmonary embolism became fatal as he died in a hospital in Scottsdale, Arizona on July 17, 2013, after suffering this condition.

Heavy D

The American rapper, singer and actor became a victim of pulmonary embolism when he died on November 8, 2011 in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 44. The autopsy report revealed deep vein thrombosis in D’s leg which broke off and traveled to his lungs. The blood clot probably formed during his long-haul flight from London to LA.

Frida Kahlo

It is not 100% clear what exactly was the cause when the famous Mexican painter, known for her self-portraits, passed away. The report says pulmonary embolism, but autopsy was never performed and some suspect that morphine overdose was the real culprit.