Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening

What is Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening?

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening is a simple, risk-free ultrasound scan to check if there's a bulge or swelling in the aorta, the main blood vessel that runs from your heart down through your abdomen. 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).

 

Who is the screening for?

Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening is for men aged 65 and over. The test is only offered to men as they’re 6 times more likely to have an abdominal aortic aneurysm than women. Screening can find aneurysms early, so they can be monitored or treated. This greatly reduces the chances of the aneurysm causing serious problems.

Men aged over 65 who have not been screened before can call 0191 445 8747 to arrange a test.

 

Risks of developing an AAA

Your chance of having an abdominal aortic aneurysm can also increase if:

  • you are, or have ever been, a smoker
  • you have high blood pressure
  • your brother, sister, or parent has, or has had, an abdominal aortic aneurysm

Page last reviewed: 10 September 2021
Page created: 10 September 2021