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The NHS Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening Programme is a free NHS screening service.
The South Devon and Exeter AAA Screening Programme is managed from Torbay Hospital and covers a large area of Devon. Screening clinics are held at local GP surgeries and community hospitals.
What is an abdominal aortic aneurysm?
An abdominal aortic aneurysm, also called an AAA, is a swelling in the aorta.
The aorta is the main blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
Most people with an AAA do not have any symptoms, so screening is the best way to find an aneurysm early.
Who is invited for AAA screening?
In England, men are invited for AAA screening during the year they turn 65.
AAA screening is also recommended for anyone aged 65 or over who was assigned male at birth. This includes trans women and some non-binary people.
If you are registered as male with your GP practice, you should automatically receive an invitation.
If you are aged 65 or over, were assigned male at birth, and have not been screened before, you can contact your local AAA screening service to ask for an appointment.
Local AAA screening service: South Devon and Exeter AAA Screening: 01803 655441.
What happens at the appointment?
AAA screening uses a simple ultrasound scan of your tummy.
The test is quick, painless and usually only takes a few minutes.
You will usually be told your result at the end of the appointment.
Why is screening important?
AAA screening can find an aneurysm before it causes symptoms.
If an aneurysm is found, it can be monitored or treated if needed. This helps reduce the risk of the aneurysm bursting, which can be life-threatening.
