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Changing incidence of abdominal aortic aneurysms: a population-based study
American Journal of Epidemiology
|September 1, 1984
Summary
The incidence of abdominal aortic aneurysms significantly increased from 1951-1980, particularly in men and older individuals. This rise may be linked to improved detection of smaller, asymptomatic cases.
Area of Science:
- Vascular surgery
- Epidemiology
- Public health
Background:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) represent a significant vascular disease.
- Understanding trends in AAA incidence is crucial for public health planning.
- Previous studies have indicated varying incidence rates across different populations and time periods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the temporal trends in the incidence of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) and thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) in Rochester, Minnesota.
- To investigate demographic factors, such as age and sex, associated with AAA incidence.
- To explore potential reasons for observed changes in aneurysm incidence, including diagnostic improvements.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective population-based study using medical records from Rochester, Minnesota residents.
- Analysis of aneurysm diagnoses between 1951 and 1980.
- Calculation of age- and sex-adjusted incidence rates per 100,000 person-years.
Main Results:
- Apparent AAA incidence increased seven-fold between 1951 and 1980, while TAA incidence slightly declined.
- AAA rates increased with age and were higher in men.
- The incidence of small, asymptomatic, and uncomplicated AAAs showed the most significant rise, suggesting improved case ascertainment.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights a substantial increase in diagnosed AAA incidence over three decades in Rochester, MN.
- Improved diagnostic methods and case finding likely contribute to the observed rise, especially for smaller aneurysms.
- The secular trend for AAA differs from that of stroke and coronary heart disease in the same community, suggesting distinct etiological or diagnostic factors.