Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust has produced a series of informative videos to raise awareness about Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) screening and its life-saving benefits. The videos aim to help males 65 or older understand what AAA screening involves, why it is important, and how to access the service.
What is AAA screening?
Julie from the AAA Screening Programme explains that an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a weakening and bulging of the aorta, the main blood vessel from the heart to the legs.
AAA often has no symptoms but can be life-threatening if it ruptures. The NHS offers screening to men aged 65, who are six times more likely to develop an AAA than women. The screening is a simple, painless ultrasound scan, similar to those used during pregnancy, with results provided immediately. Most men are discharged with no concerns, while those with an aneurysm enter a surveillance programme for monitoring.
The importance of attending your screening appointment
Kate from the Northeast and North Cumbria AAA Screening Programme emphasises that the scan is quick, painless, and life-saving. Since aortic aneurysms have no symptoms until rupture, early detection through screening can prevent fatalities.
Missed appointments – a lost opportunity to save lives
Mel, the AAA Screening Admin Coordinator, highlights that over 2,000 appointments are missed annually. Missed appointments waste resources and reduce the chances of detecting life-threatening aneurysms. Mel encourages patients to cancel or reschedule if they cannot attend, ensuring the slot can be used by someone else.
Supporting individual needs – accessibility matters
Mel also advises patients to inform the screening team of any additional needs. The service offers adjustments, such as accessible rooms, extra appointment time, easy-read documentation, and interpreter services.
Why early detection matters
Sam, a clinical skills tutor, explains that early detection allows medical teams to monitor aneurysms and provide timely treatment if necessary. The five-minute ultrasound provides immediate results, giving patients either peace of mind or a pathway to further care.
Who should attend and how to get in touch
The NHS offers AAA screening to men aged 65, as they are at higher risk. If you are approaching this age and registered with a GP, you will automatically receive an invitation. However, if you are over 65 and have never been screened, you can request an appointment by contacting the AAA Screening Programme at Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust.
Be aware that symptoms rarely show until it is too late, so don’t wait for signs, act early.
You can reach the AAA Screening Service by phone or email using the contact details provided below.
The North East and North Cumbria AAA Screening Service
0191 445 8747
The Lancashire and South Cumbria AAA Screening Service
0191 445 8747
To learn more or schedule a screening, visit the Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust AAA web page.
AAA Screening Saves Lives – don’t Miss Your Appointment.