Abdominal aortic aneurysm: an often asymptomatic and fatal men's health issue

Men are more likely than women to develop an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), a disease that is often asymptomatic and has up to a 90% risk of mortality if the aneurysm ruptures. What many men do not know is that an AAA can easily be identified through an ultrasound screening, and if the aneurysm is >5.5 cm, it can be surgically repaired to prevent a life-threatening rupture. Although current AAA screening recommendations focus on men between the ages of 65 and 75 years, who have ever smoked, recent evidence suggest many men of ages 50 to 80 years, regardless of smoking status, may also be at risk for developing an AAA. This article presents a comprehensive overview of AAA disease and summarizes current evidence-based diagnostic and treatment guidelines, the importance of educating men about this health issue, and the need for more widespread AAA ultrasound screening opportunities.