AAA is a ballooning of the abdominal aorta, the artery that carries blood away from the heart to the lower part of the body. Over time, an aneurysm can weaken. The force of normal blood pressure can then cause the aorta to rupture. This can lead to everything from severe pain and internal bleeding to sudden death.

Most patients with a ruptured aneurysm do not survive emergency treatment, making AAA the 3rd leading cause of sudden death in men over 60.

Former NFL professional Joe Theismann knows a lot about AAA. His own father was diagnosed with the condition. Joe calls the disease 'The Silent Killer'.

"My dad had open heart surgery and during a routine check-up, he discovered the problem. I was very ignorant of the disease. I knew my dad had an aneurysm, but I didn't realize that an aneurysm could occur somewhere other than the brain, which you hear so much about. My dad was 85 and wasn't quite sure what was wrong with him, so I asked him if his condition was abdominal. He said it was. I called his doctor and confirmed it. An agent of mine called and said they were looking for a spokesperson for AAA, and if I had any experience with the disease. I have been involved with the cause for over three years now."

Joe knows all the big names associated with AAA; Lucille Ball, James Garner, Bob Dole, Einstein himself. Athlete Joe DiMaggio also suffered. Some of these celebrities were diagnosed and expired from the disease while others were treated and forever associated with the condition. This, however, doesn't mean enough light is being shed on AAA.

"I recommend that everyone get a physical after the age of 50. Unless you ask for the test, you won't receive it. I'm the lone ranger. I am honored to have this opportunity to talk about AAA, and if I didn't step up, no one would. I get great gratification in promoting awareness and thus saving lives. This is a life-threatening disease, but a diagnosis can be life-saving," says Joe. "We tested over 1000 people and between 50-70 were suffering from AAA, roughly 5% of the people tested. For me, education and information translates into saving lives."

Although the affliction is primarily seen in men, woman can be affected as well. This disease isn't exclusive to men. "The simplicity of my campaign is evident. It is so easy to get an ultrasound, just like a woman would get during her pregnancy to check on her baby. It's a simple 10-minute procedure that can save your life, or the life of a loved one."

What does Joe suggest in terms of exercise?

"Society has changed so much in the advent of video games, the Internet, and the like. People don't get up, get outside. All it takes in a half hour to an hour a day---just walk! General exercise like walking can help so much. I have bad knees and hips that prevent me from running, but I can walk. Walk on a treadmill, outside with the kids, with your dog---if you have a pet alligator, walk it! Getting fresh air and preventing yourself from being in the sitting position in an office all day or laying down sleeping is important. You have work hard at your routine. Don't talk about it; just start getting tired of being tired. Why do bears hibernate in winter? People do, too. The gym or outdoors is a place to socialize and vent frustrations."

Joe himself played football at 185 lbs. and he is just over his goal weight of 209. Even former NFL players have struggles and continue to have athletic goals, so why shouldn't you? "Fatigue is created in both the mind and body," Joe says. "Your body and mind have to work together to both get rest and be ready to take on a challenge."

In terms of the Super Bowl, what does Joe foresee?

"I think you'll see Eli Manning step up with over 300 yards. I like the Giants for this year. The Giants have been playing like Green Bay was playing last year, coming up as a wild card, barely making the playoffs and then coming back for the win."

Photo Courtesy: Find the AAAnswers. The orange suspenders are the AAAnswers campaign icon because they frame the abdomen and call attention to the area where at-risk people should be screened.

You heard it here, folks. Learn more about AAA at this link. Check out the video with Joe and his story at this link.

On the AAA site, you will find a risk quiz, doctor-finder directory, e-cards and more. Get Screened Now!