Aortic Dissections can be fatal when diagnosed too late in an emergency. Know the causes and signs of aortic dissection to improve survival with a better quality of life. Get involved and share our Aortic Dissection Awareness Day video to help raise awareness! Click here to watch the video and read more

GADA Canada has come a long way from being the Canadian Marfan Association, established in 1986 for Marfan syndrome support in Canada, to an organization that is internationally recognized for embracing and supporting all other genetic aortic disorders (GAD) including Marfan syndrome. Click here to watch the video and read more

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Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection

An aortic aneurysm is a permanent, localized enlargement of the aorta to more than 50% of its normal diameter. An aortic dissection (or tear) is defined as a disruption of the medial layer of the aorta resulting in bleeding within and along the wall of the aorta and separation of the layers of the wall of the aorta. Although most aortic dissections are preceded by an aneurysm, some dissections can occur without significant enlargement of the aorta.

The Genetics Behind Aneurysms: An Interview with Dr. Dianna Milewicz

Genes can predict progression of aortic aneurysms to dissections. Genes can also predict other vascular disease the patients may be at risk for. Genetic testing and routine imaging from the head to the pelvis are important to monitor aneurysms of the aorta and other arteries in patients with aortic disease. 

Why are physician-scientists crucial to our future? | Dianna Milewicz | TEDxHouston

In order to better leverage the latest research and new treatments, physicians who are also scientists work to combine the care and empathy of personal care with robust scientific research to develop better treatments and save lives. The Physician-Scientist workforce has been declining, and we need to change that trend in order to solve human deceases.