The HealthFair Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) FAQ section provides basic answers to questions about the benefits of health screening to help prevent abdominal aneurysm. Learn about abdominal aneurysm facts, the health risk factors for abdominal aortic aneurysm, what causes them, why they’re dangerous and who’s at risk.
Q. What is Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)?
A. An aortic aneurysm is a weak, bulging area (similar to a balloon) in the wall of the aorta. The bulging develops from a weakness or defects in the aortic wall and tends to get bigger with time. An aortic aneurysm poses a serious health risk because of the potential for rupture, clotting or dissecting. Rupture of an aneurysm in the abdominal aorta causes blood loss, shock and is often fatal.
Q. Who is at greatest risk for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA)?
A. Men over age 55 are at the greatest risk. In fact, aneurysms are among the top ten causes of death among this group. Research also indicates that women over the age of 65 with cardiovascular / heart disease risk factors are also at increased risk.
Q. Why are Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) so dangerous?
A. Rupture of an aneurysm in the abdominal aorta causes blood loss, shock and is often fatal; they are extremely dangerous because they are usually symptomless until a medical emergency occurs.
Q. How can people find out if they have abdominal aortic aneurysms?
A. The majority of abdominal aortic aneurysms can be discovered through an ultrasound screening of the abdomen.
Q. If I have an aneurysm, what is the risk of death from rupture?
A. If rupture occurs; the possibility of death is about 80-95%. Once an aneurysm reaches 5-6 cm in diameter the risk of rupture is extremely high and typically requires surgery immediately, unless other medical factors make surgery a potential risk.