Who Is At Risk for an Aneurysm?

Populations Affected

Men are 5 to 10 times more likely than women to have an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)-the most common type of aneurysm.

The risk of AAA increases as you get older, and it is more likely to occur in people between the ages of 60 to 80. A peripheral aneurysm also is more likely to affect people ages 60 to 80. Cerebral (brain) aneurysms, though rare, are more likely to occur in people ages 35 to 60.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase your risk for aneurysm include:

• Atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries.
• Smoking. You are eight times more likely to develop an aneurysm if you smoke.
• Overweight or obesity.
• A family history of aortic aneurysm, heart disease, or other diseases of the arteries.
• Certain diseases that can weaken the wall of the aorta, such as:
  • Marfan syndrome (an inherited disease in which tissues don't develop normally)
  • Untreated syphilis (a very rare cause today)
  • Tuberculosis (also a very rare cause today)
• Trauma such as a blow to the chest in a car accident.
• Severe and persistent high blood pressure between the ages of 35 and 60. This increases the risk for a cerebral aneurysm.
• Use of stimulant drugs such as cocaine.