The screening process
The NHS Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Programme is being introduced gradually across England. Phased implementation commenced in March 2009 and it is anticipated that coverage across England will be achieved by March 2013.
Research has demonstated that offering men ultrasound screening in their 65th year could reduce the rate of premature death from ruptured AAA by up to 50 per cent. See AAA Screening Statistics for more details.
All men living in an area covered by the screening programme are automatically invited for screening in the year they turn 65. Men who are older than 65, and who have not previously been screened or treated for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, can opt-in through self-referral direct to the screening programme.
Men receive an invitation leaflet with an appointment time three weeks in advance.
If the man accepts the invitation an ultrasound scan of the abdomen is carried out and the aortic diameter measured.
Results are provided verbally immediately after the scan and in the post shortly afterwards.
Resourses for professionals
Map of medicine care pathway for AAA screening
Information sheet for Healthcare Professionals
Screening Time Line
NHS Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Programme website
DVLA
Eat Well
Local services and Referral process
East Kent Hospitals NHS University Foundation Trust (East Kent area)
Medway Foundation Trust - (Medway and West Kent area)
