Smoking can increase the incidence of abdominal aortic aneurysm

According to a report by British Reuters, a study shows that smoking can increase the risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). If this aneurysm ruptures, it may cause life-threatening.

According to the National Library of Medicine, an abdominal aortic aneurysm develops when the aorta (the main blood vessel supplying blood to the lower body) expands or bulges due to weakening of the blood vessel wall. If this type of aneurysm is discovered, it can be cured, but if a tear or rupture occurs, only one-fifth of the population survives. "Smoking is a major risk factor for AAA," said Tang Weihong, Ph.D., the University of Minnesota, and lead author of the research report.

The researchers used data from the 1987 to 1989 end of 15,000 people who were initially assessed at the risk of AAA expansion. Participants then conducted three inspections and tests in 1998. Between 2011 and 2013, nearly 6,000 people were still alive, and ultrasonic testing was conducted during the fifth interview. In 2011, 75 new cases were found by ultrasound scans. After a 22-year follow-up period, a total of 590 patients were diagnosed with ruptured AAA or being repaired.

The study found that the risk of AAA smoking among quitters was 29% lower than those who still smoked. At the same time, female smokers have a much higher risk of developing AAA than male smokers.

"AAA affects 5% to 9% of Americans aged 65 and over," Tang said. "Smoking can cause chronic inflammation, which in turn activates enzymes that degrade elastin and collagen fibers in the aortic wall.