Clinical Service

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Programme

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What we do

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening is a way of checking if there's a bulge or swelling in the aorta, the main blood vessel that runs from your heart down through your tummy.

This bulge or swelling is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm, or AAA.

It can be serious if it's not spotted early on because it could get bigger and eventually burst (rupture).

In England, screening for AAA is offered to men during the year they turn 65.

If you're a man and registered with a GP, you'll get a screening invitation in the post when you're 64 or soon after your 65th birthday. You can then arrange an appointment that suits you.

If you're over 65 years old and have never been invited for AAA screening, you can contact us to ask for a scan.

What happens during AAA screening

Screening for AAA involves a quick and painless ultrasound scan of your tummy.

This is similar to the scan pregnant women have to check on their baby.

When you arrive for your appointment, a screening technician will check your details, explain the scan and ask if you have any questions.

Results are given verbally and in writing, immediately after the scan. A letter giving the results is also sent to your GP.

Learn more about AAA screenings at nhs.uk