Who is at risk for developing an aortic aneurysm?
Aneurysms of the aorta can occur in any individual, but those at greatest risk include men over the age of 50, smokers, individuals with high blood pressure, heart disease, high cholesterol, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and those with a family history of aortic aneurysms. Patients with conditions such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome are also at high risk of developing an aortic aneurysm. Screening of individuals which fall into high risk categories should be done in the early to mid-60’s or sooner if you have an inherited condition. Screening can be done with an abdominal ultrasound, a CT scan, or an MRA.
