Which demographic is at a higher risk for aortic dissection?

Aortic dissection is a serious condition where there is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, which can lead to life-threatening complications. The demographic that is at a higher risk for this condition includes older adults, particularly those with hypertension.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, puts significant stress on the walls of the aorta over time. This can weaken the vessel wall, making it more susceptible to dissection. Additionally, as people age, the structural integrity of their blood vessels can decline, further increasing the risk. The combination of age and hypertension creates a scenario where the likelihood of experiencing an aortic dissection is significantly heightened.

Other demographics mentioned do not share the same level of risk factors associated with aortic dissection. For instance, women under 30 are generally not in a high-risk group for this condition, and being sedentary is not directly linked to aortic dissection without other significant risk factors. Smokers without other health issues might have elevated risks for some cardiovascular diseases, but they do not face the same specific risk for aortic dissection as older adults with hypertension do.