In September, the Marfan Foundation shines a light on the risk of fatal aortic dissection – a roughly 250x greater risk for people living with Marfan, Loeys-Dietz, VEDS and related genetic aortic conditions.
Sometimes mistaken for a heart attack, aortic dissection is a ripping or tearing of the aorta. Emergency imaging can lead to life-saving surgery. Know the signs; save lives!
The new infographic presents aortic aneurysm information – emphasizing that symptoms of aneurysm are rare: aneurysms are often asymptomatic. By contrast, aortic dissection typically has pronounced acute symptoms which are highlighted. The goal: raising more awareness of the signs of dissection and aneurysm so that providers like first responders and emergency care personnel can save more lives.
The new infographic will be available for download from our website and via social media beginning in mid-September. This year, the Foundation will be highlighting aortic dissection information throughout the month of September with special emphasis during Aortic Dissection Awareness Week September 14 – 20, 2025.
The Marfan Foundation drives research, education and support – and builds community – to improve outcomes, save lives and empower all people to thrive who are living with Marfan, Loeys-Dietz, Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, and related genetic aortic and vascular conditions.