A patient with a 7 cm abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) chooses not to have surgery. Which statement is FALSE?

The assertion that the risk of death from cardiac disease is greater than from aneurysm rupture is not accurate in the context of a 7 cm abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). In fact, larger aneurysms, particularly those over 5.5 cm in diameter, carry a significant risk of rupture, which poses a substantial immediate threat to life. Patients with such sizable AAAs are typically at a higher risk for rupture compared to other causes of mortality, including cardiac disease. This is particularly relevant as the risk for rupture increases markedly with the size of the aneurysm.

Monitoring of patients with aneurysms is a standard practice in vascular care, allowing for timely intervention should the aneurysm grow or exhibit concerning features. While many patients do choose surgical intervention to mitigate the risk of rupture, it's important to note that not all patients opt for surgery, and therefore it’s also accurate that many close monitoring protocols are followed. Lastly, not all aneurysms present symptoms, which can make diagnosis and management even more complicated. Thus, the correct answer reflects an important aspect of aneurysm risks compared to other health concerns.