Environmental and genetic risk factors contribute to the etiology of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been associated with the pathophysiology of AAAs. A prospective, nonrandomized case–control study was undertaken to investigate the risk factors for large AAAs (≥5.5 cm) among 175 male Greek AAA patients and to compare the results with a cohort of 166 male controls free from any aortic dilatation, as confirmed by ultrasonography from an existing AAA screening program in the same region. We also assessed the potential association between 2 functional single nucleotide polymorphisms in the genes MMP9 (−1561C/T; rs3918242) and MMP13 (−77A/G; rs2252070), and the presence of large AAAs. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed AAA family history (P = .028), hypercholesterolemia (P < .001), and current smoking (P < .001) as AAA risk factors. Statistical difference was reached in genotype (P = .047) and allele (P = .037) frequencies for rs2252070, but the results did not remain significant after correction for multiple testing. No significant differences in genotype or allele frequencies for rs3918242 were detected. In summary, AAA family history, hypercholesterolemia, and current smoking were found to be risk factors for large AAAs.
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