Prevalence of abdominal aorta aneurysm and associated risk factors in Abha city, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objective: The objective was to assess the prevalence and risk factors of abdominal aorta aneurysms (AAAs) in the general population. Materials and Methods: We carried out a prospective, interventional study with patients aged over 60 years screened in the Asir Central Hospital Vascular Department from March 2017 to March 2018. Ultrasound was used to AAA screening. The maximal anteroposterior (AP) and transverse (LL) diameters of the suprarenal and infrarenal aorta were measured in each patient. AAA was defined as aortic dilatation >29 mm in the AP or LL plane. All cases with an aortic diameter >25 mm were included in the study. Results: Our study included 701 patients (531 male, 170 female; age 60–102 years). Most were Saudi nationals (87.6%). There were some smokers (1.3%), 277 (39.5%) had diabetes mellitus, and 233 (31.8%) had hypertension. Fifty-one percent of patient had ischemic heart disease (7.3%), and 13.4% had hypercholesterolemia. Patients were classified into three groups: normal aortic size of 657 patients (93.7%); aortic ectasia 26–29 mm of 24 patients (3.4%); and AAA ≥30 mm of 20 patients (2.9%). The overall prevalence of AAA was ≥30 mm (2.9%) and there is significant relation with hypertension (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Asymptomatic AAA is prevalent in our area. We may need to implement a regular screening program for men aged >60 years, especially high-risk patients to reduce AAA rupture, emergency AAA repair, and mortality.