Abdominal Aortic Dilatation in Japanese Residents

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Vascular Surgery
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Abdominal aortic dilatation, including abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), is a serious vascular condition.
• Understanding risk factors is crucial for early detection and prevention strategies.
• Prevalence and risk factors may vary geographically and by sex.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between abdominal aortic dilatation and established arteriosclerotic risk factors in a Japanese population.
• To determine the prevalence of abdominal aortic dilatation in Japan and compare it with other regions.
• To identify specific risk factors associated with abdominal aortic dilatation in Japanese men and women.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study involving 2514 Japanese residents (mean age 70 years).
• Aortic diameter measured using ultrasound; dilatation defined as >30 mm.
• Comparison of demographic and clinical characteristics between patients with and without aortic dilatation.

Main Results:

• Abdominal aortic dilatation prevalence was 1.7% (43/2514), significantly higher in men (3%) than women (0.7%).
• Obesity and hyperlipidemia showed a slight association (p < 0.1) with aortic dilatation.
• No significant differences in age, smoking, diabetes, or coronary artery disease between groups.

Conclusions:

• Male obesity and hyperlipidemia are potential risk factors for abdominal aortic dilatation in Japan.
• Lower prevalence observed in Japan compared to European countries, suggesting potential cost-effectiveness considerations for screening women.
• Despite lower prevalence, ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is advised due to the severe prognosis of AAA rupture.