The aorta is the main artery that supplies blood to your body. It runs from your heart down through your chest and abdomen (tummy). As we get older, some people find the wall of the aorta in the abdomen can become weak and balloon out to form an aneurysm. This is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm or AAA.
Who is AAA screening for?
Men aged 65 will be invited to attend a local clinic to receive an ultrasound scan which can detect Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA).
Most men are unaware that they have the condition and will have no symptoms; for many men the rupture of the is the very first sign of the problem.
Ruptures can result in death - around 8 in 10 ruptures will prove fatal.
Using an ultrasound scan, which is quick and painless, can determine if an aneurysm is present, with results made available instantly after the scan.
Most men who attend AAA screening will have a normal result. If an aneurysm is found results of the scan will be sent to the man's GP who will discuss the results with them. Depending on the result, the man may need to be monitored regularly (surveillance) or referred to a specialist surgeon.
Ask
- Are you aware of AAA screening?
- Have you attended your AAA Screening?
- Do you understand why you have been asked to attend?
Assist
Would you like me to assist you in making contact?
Opt-in's
If you are a man aged over 65 years of age and not had the opportunity to attend screening, you can request screening by calling the AAA screening office on (01382) 496393.
Act
- Do you require support to attend the appointment? (eg disability/mobility issues)
- Do you require support to make an appointment?