With regard to the pathogenesis of aortic aneurysm, which one of the following is the most important factor?
A. SmokingThe most common cause of aneurysm formation is atherosclerosis, primarily related to hypertension. Marfan syndrome is a significant risk factor for aneurysm formation and dissection, and therefore the threshold for treating these aneurysms is lower than in the non-Marfan population.