Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
From June 2012 men across Scotland in their 65th year will be invited to be screened for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA). Up to 170 lives a year in Scotland could be saved through this screening programme.
The screening programme aims to reduce the mortality associated with the risk of aortic abdominal aneurysm rupture in men aged 65 years and older. The screening involves a ultrascan of the abdomen and will take place at local screening centres across the country.
The screening programme will identify men who have an aortic diameter of greater than 3cm by way of ultrasound examination of the aorta. If the measurement is under 3cm, the man is unlikely to develop an aneurysm and will be discharged from the screening programme. If the measurement is over 3cm then they will be referred onto their GP or a health specialist who will prescribe the next step.
The programme will include a number of screening centres which will provide call/recall facilities and arrange appointments. Screening can take place in local areas and men will be given results immediately and either discharged, returned for surveillance or referred to vascular services, with confirmation by letter.
The estimated figures show that the screening programme could save up to 170 lives per year in Scotland when all men over 65 have been offered screening.
More information regarding this screening programme will be available soon.
Reviewed 09 May 2011