Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening Programme

What is the Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening Programme?

The Sussex AAA Screening Programme is part of a national programme run by the NHS that offers free AAA screening to gentlemen aged 65 who are registered with a GP in Sussex. There is a cohort of approximately 9,500 men who will be offered an appointment during the financial year that they turn 65.

What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

The aorta is the main blood vessel in the body. It runs from your heart down through your chest and abdomen. In some people, as they get older, the wall of the aorta in the abdomen can become weakened. It can then start to expand and form what is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). The condition is most common in men aged 65 and over.

Who is at risk?

Men are approximately six times more likely to have an abdominal aortic aneurysm than women. The chance of having an aneurysm increases with age. The risk of having an abdominal aortic aneurysm can also increase if you are a smoker, you have hypertension (high blood pressure), your parent or sibling has, or has been treated for an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

What does the Trust provide?

We provide a community based service and our team do ultrasound measurements of the aorta. The procedure in non invasive, harmless and quick and results are given at the clinic and GPs are notified of the outcome by letter. Appointments can easily be rearranged by contacting the screening office.

Please see our Frequently asked Questions section for more information.