Boston, MA (PRWEB) February 24, 2011

on February 16, Donald Becker, Executive Vice President of the Kroger co., died as a result of a ruptured brain aneurysm, a condition that will affect more approximately 30,000 people in the United States this year. By raising awareness of the symptoms of unruptured brain aneurysms and helping first responders diagnose ruptured aneurysms, the Brain Aneurysm Foundation hopes to reduce the incidence of ruptures and save lives.

An estimated 3–6 million people in the U.S. have an unruptured brain aneurysm, a weak bulging on the wall of a brain artery, which can occur at any age.

Most people with unruptured brain aneurysms are completely asymptomatic; however, some people may experience warning signs which might suggest an aneurysm, such as cranial nerve palsy, dilated pupils, double vision, pain above and behind the eye and localized headaches. if a brain aneurysm is diagnosed early with proper screening, it is possible the aneurysm can be treated to prevent a rupture.

Approximately 30,000 people in the U.S. will suffer a ruptured brain aneurysm (cerebral hemorrhage) and of those that survive, only a third will not be impacted by disabilities. those suffering from a ruptured brain aneurysm will often have physical warning signs such as localized headache, nausea and vomiting, stiff neck, blurred or double vision, sensitivity to light and loss of sensation. Early diagnosis of a ruptured aneurysm can make a significant difference in the recovery of the patient. With early detection, most brain aneurysms requiring treatment can be repaired with surgery or endovascular therapy.

To help ensure the proper diagnosis of brain aneurysms, the Brain Aneurysm Foundation has developed an educational video entitled Early Detection of Brain Aneurysms: Life vs. Death. Designed to educate primary care physicians, emergency room physicians and first responders on the early detection of brain aneurysms, this 20 minute video focuses on recognizing the symptoms related to a brain aneurysm and performing appropriate diagnostic brain imaging to determine if an aneurysm is present.

The Brain Aneurysm Foundation is the nation’s only nonprofit organization solely dedicated to providing critical awareness, education, support, and research funding to reduce the incidence of brain aneurysm ruptures. In 2010, the organization provided $110,000 in research grants to help further research that will promote a better understanding of why this condition happens and identify those at risk before an aneurysm rupture occurs. the organization also provides education materials and awareness information to healthcare professionals and the general population, as well as providing support for patients and their loved ones.

The Brain Aneurysm Foundation relies on fundraising support from individuals and organizations to continue to fund education and research to continue the fight against brain aneurysms.

About the Brain Aneurysm Foundation the Brain Aneurysm Foundation was established in Boston, MA on August 19, 1994 as a public charity. the Brain Aneurysm Foundation is the nation’s only nonprofit organization solely dedicated to providing critical awareness, education, support and research funding to reduce the incidence of brain aneurysm ruptures. For more information, visit: bafound.org.