Aortic aneurysms are no longer as rare as they used to be. In fact, deaths associated with this condition are increasing at an alarming rate of 12 percent annually. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), aortic aneurysms account for about 2 percent of global cardiovascular deaths annually. The highest incidence of aortic aneurysm occurs in countries with aging populations, including the United States, Japan, and many European countries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that abdominal aortic aneurysms alone cause more than 10,000 deaths annually in the U.S., with smoking being a contributing factor in more than 75 percent of cases.

Dr. Vijay Surase, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Jupiter Hospital, Thane, Mumbai explains, “Aortic aneurysm is a silent killer that often goes undetected until it is too late. Awareness and early detection are important to deal with this growing threat.

What is an Aortic Aneurysm?

An aortic aneurysm occurs when the walls of the aorta, the body’s main artery, become weak and bulging. This can happen in two primary places:

– Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA): Found in the lower part of the aorta passing through the stomach.

– Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA): Develops in the chest area.

If left untreated, the weakened area may rupture, causing catastrophic internal bleeding and potentially death.

Why is the death rate increasing? Dr. Surase shares several factors behind the increase in aortic aneurysm deaths:

1. Delayed diagnosis: “Aortic aneurysms are often symptomless until they grow larger or rupture. This delay in diagnosis limits timely intervention,” he says.

2. Lifestyle habits: Poor diet, sedentary lifestyle and especially smoking are major contributors. “Smoking is particularly dangerous – it weakens artery walls and accelerates the development of aneurysms,” warns Dr. Surase.

3. Aging population: The risk of aneurysm increases with age, becoming more prevalent as lifespan increases.

4. Lack of awareness: Many people remain unaware of this silent killer, skipping regular health checkups so that it can be caught early.

5. Comorbidities: Conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and connective tissue disorders further increase the risk.

“Gender also plays a role,” says Dr. Surase. “While men are more likely to develop an aneurysm, women often suffer worse outcomes when they do.”

recognizing symptoms

Aortic aneurysms may not always show symptoms, but warning signs may include:

– Abdominal aortic aneurysm: throbbing sensation near the navel, persistent abdominal or back pain.

– Thoracic aortic aneurysm: sudden, severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or choking.

“If the aneurysm bursts, the symptoms range from excruciating pain, fainting and rapid heart rate,” says Dr. Surase. “This is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical intervention.”

Who is at risk?

Some groups are more vulnerable:

– Smokers: Smoking is a major risk factor.

– Older adults: especially men over 65 and postmenopausal women.

– People with high blood pressure: High blood pressure puts extra pressure on the walls of the arteries.

– Genetic susceptibility: Family history or conditions such as Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome increase risk.

“Understanding these risks can help high-risk individuals prioritize preventive measures,” Dr. Surse advises.

How can you prevent aortic aneurysm?

Prevention begins with management of controllable risk factors. Dr. Surse shared these key steps:

1. Quit smoking: “This is the most effective way to reduce risk.”

2. Control blood pressure and cholesterol: A heart-healthy diet, regular exercise and prescribed medications are important.

3. Regular checkups: “Men above 65 years of age, who have smoked and who have a family history should get regular ultrasound checkups,” he emphasizes.

4. Adopt healthy habits: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins supports vascular health.

5. Manage co-morbidities: Proper treatment of high blood pressure, diabetes and other conditions can reduce the risk.

treatment options

Once diagnosed, treatment depends on the size and growth rate of the aneurysm:

– Monitoring: Small aneurysms may require only regular imaging and lifestyle changes.

– Medications: Medicines to lower blood pressure can help manage the risks.

– Surgery: Large or rapidly growing aneurysms often require surgical repair or endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).

“Timely intervention is key,” says Dr. Surase. “With advances in technology, treatments have become more effective, but catching the condition early makes a big difference.”

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