Aneurysms occur mostly in men (Collin et al
2009) and usually in later life (Carrell and Wolfe
2005, Tambyraja and Chamlers 2009). There also
appears to be some genetic influence, although
studies are contradictory (Saratzis et al 2011). The
incidence of aneurysms is increasing and is likely
to continue to rise as a result of the increasingly
ageing population (Schlösser et al 2010). Most
people who develop aneurysms are smokers
(Greenhalgh and Powell 2008, Metcalfe et al
2011). Other modifiable risk factors include
heavy alcohol intake (Latessa 2002). Nurses in
primary and secondary care can help patients
reduce risk factors by providing advice on health
promotion. Although women are less prone to
develop aneurysms, if they do occur, the incidence
of rupture and mortality is higher in this patient
group (reasons for this are unknown) so earlier
repair may be indicated (Metcalfe et al 2011).