Final answer:
90% of aortic aneurysm patients have used tobacco. Tobacco use significantly contributes to atherosclerosis, a major risk factor for aortic aneurysms as well as other forms of cardiovascular disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
a) Tobacco is the substance that 90% of patients with an aortic aneurysm have used.
Aortic aneurysm development is strongly associated with certain risk factors, which include hypertension, diabetes, and lifestyle choices such as tobacco use. Smoking tobacco leads to atherosclerosis, which is the thickening or hardening of the arteries due to plaque build-up and is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease, including aortic aneurysms. While lifestyle changes can mitigate risk, medical treatment options often include cholesterol lowering medications, beta-blockers, and surgical interventions like coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) when necessary.
It’s important to note that other factors like obesity, poor nutrition, and lack of physical activity also play significant roles in the prevalence of aortic aneurysm. Although not as impactful as tobacco, these factors still contribute to the overall cardiovascular health and can lead to or exacerbate the condition.