The Brain Aneurysm Foundation >> Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a brain aneurysm?
A brain aneurysm, sometimes referred to as a cerebral or intracranial aneurysm, is a weak bulging spot on the wall of a brain artery. This weak spot is similar to a weak spot on a thin balloon or inner tube.

How does a brain aneurysm form?
Brain aneurysms form from continuous wear and tear on the arterial walls over an extended period of time. This constant stress to the artery wall can sometimes, but not always, lead to hemorrhage causing severe damage or death.

For More Information:
	If you can't find the answers to your questions here or in our Information Section, contact the Brain Aneurysm Foundation at 781-826-5556. If you need immediate medical attention, call your doctor or go to your local hospital.

Risk Factors that doctors and researchers believe contribute to the formation of brain aneurysms:

	•	Smoking
	•	Hypertension
	•	Congenital resulting from inborn abnormality in artery wall
	•	Drug use, particularly cocaine
	•	Infection
	•	Tumors
	•	Traumatic head injury
	•	Family history of brain aneurysms
	•	Other inherited disorders: Ehler's Syndrome, Polycystic Kidney Disease, and Marfan's Syndrome
	•	Presence of an arteriovenous malformation

Risk Factors that doctors and researchers believe contribute to the rupture of brain aneurysms:

	•	Smoking
	•	Hypertension

Brain Aneurysm Statistics

An estimated 6 million people in the United States have an unruptured brain aneurysm, or 1 in 50 people
The annual rate of rupture is approximately 8 per 100,000 people or about 25,000 people
About 40% of all people who have a ruptured brain aneurysm will die as a result
4 out of 7 people who recover from a ruptured brain aneurysm will have disabilities
Brain aneurysms are most prevalent in people ages 35 - 60, but can occur in children as well
Women, more than men, suffer from brain aneurysms at a ratio of 3:2
Ruptured brain aneurysms account for 3-5% of all new strokes

Where do most brain aneurysms form?
Approximately 80% of brain aneurysms form in the front (anterior circulation) of the brain, while 20% form in the back (posterior circulation) of the brain. Aneurysms tend to form where the artery divides or branches off.

Does age play a role in getting a brain aneurysm?
Brain aneurysms can occur in people of all ages, but are most common in people, ages 35-60. Aneurysms are usually diagnosed in the third or fourth decade of someone's life. They are rare in childhood and adolescence.

Are brain aneurysms gender-specific?
Women are actually more likely to get brain aneurysms than men, with a ratio of 3:2.

Where can I get more information?
Contact the Brain Aneurysm Foundation at 781-826-5556. If you need immediate medical attention, call your doctor or go to your local hospital.