2026-09-19

Aortic Dissection Awareness Day 2026

dissecting aortic aneuysm
An aortic dissection is a life-threatening medical emergency where a tear develops in the inner layer of the aorta; the largest cardiac arterial vessel which permits blood to surge between the layers of the wall and force them apart.

This event is characterized by sudden, severe pain. Neurological phenomena include visual impairment speaking, or moving. These things may also mimic a stroke. Included are shortness of breath, fainting, dizziness, heavy sweating, or a rapid and weak pulse.

Types of Aortic Dissection

Type A (Stanford Type A)
Starts in the upper part of the aorta where it exits the heart (ascending aorta).
This is more dangerous and usually requires emergency open-chest surgery.

Type B (Stanford Type B)
Starts further down in the lower aorta (descending aorta).
This is often treated initially with medication rather than immediate surgery.

Aortic Dissection Awareness Day is observed worldwide every year on September 19th to educate the public and medical community about this life-threatening emergency.

High-Profile Figures Struck by the Condition

Lindsey Graham  The South Carolina US Senator who recently passed from an acute aortic dissection linked to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
John Ritter  TV and Film star tragically died from a missed and misdiagnosed aortic dissection.
Alan Thicke  Actor suffered a fatal ruptured aorta brought on by an acute aortic dissection while playing hockey.
Jonathan Larson  Playwright of the musical Rent died unexpectedly from an undiagnosed aortic dissection just hours before his show's premiere.
Andy Fletcher  The founding member and keyboardist of the band Depeche Mode who passed from the condition.