South Devon and Exeter was one of the first areas in England to implement the NHS Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening Programme.

The Programme is being gradually introduced in phases across the country. It aims to reduce deaths from abdominal aortic aneurysms (also called ‘AAAs’ or ‘Triple As’) through early detection.

What is an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)?

In some people, as they get older, the wall of the aorta in the abdomen can become weak. It can then start to expand and form what is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

The condition is most common in men aged 65 and above. It is estimated that around 1 in 25 men aged between 65 and 74 in England have an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Large aneurysms are rare but can be very serious. As the wall of the aorta stretches it becomes weaker and can rupture. If this happens, the person usually dies.

Why is screening important?

People who have an aneurysm do not generally notice any symptoms.

We offer screening so we can find aneurysms early and monitor or treat them. This greatly reduces the chances of the aneurysm causing serious problems.

Who is invited for screening?

Men in the South Devon and Exeter AAA Screening Programme area are invited for screening during the year that they turn 65.

Men over 65 years can be screened on request. To request an appointment please telephone 01803 655 441, making sure you have your current NHS number and GP details handy.  

The screening process involves a simple, pain-free ultrasound scan of the abdomen. The test is very quick and usually lasts less than 10 minutes.

Men are told their result straight away and their GP is also informed.

Risk factors for developing AAA are:

• Males  
• Age – more common over 65 years of age
• Smokers
• Those with AAA in a first degree relative
• High blood pressure
• Little physical activity
• High cholesterol
• Overweight

Individuals are normally excluded from the programme if they:

• Have undergone AAA surgery
• Are under 65

• Are female
• On advice from the GP any individual in whom it would be inappropriate to offer screening because of terminal illness or very severe physical or mental health problems
• Have requested that they be permanently removed from the AAA Screening programme

For the public

A short film providing information about abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening.  The film lasts around four minutes and explains what an AAA is, who is at risk of having an AAA and what happens when a man is invited for screening. Click this link to view the film.

For professionals

A short film for healthcare professionals which provides information about abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening and the NHS AAA Screening Programme. The film lasts around four minutes. Click this link to view the film.

For more information contact:

AAA Screening Exeter & South Devon,
Top Floor Kitson Hall,
Torbay Hospital,
Lawes Bridge,
Torquay
Devon
TQ2 7AA

Email: aaa.sdhct@nhs.net

Tel: 01803 655 441