Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a bulge or swelling in the aorta. This is the largest artery in the body which carries blood from your heart to your tummy. If an AAA ruptures, it can be deadly. Around 8 out of 10 people with an untreated AAA will die from it.
AAA screening is a simple, pain-free ultrasound scan of your abdomen that usually takes less than 10 minutes. It can detect any swelling early so that it can be treated if needed and monitored. If no aneurysm is detected you'll need no further scans.
You'll be invited for AAA screening during the year you turn 65, if you're a man and registered with a GP.
It is recommended for anyone assigned male at birth. This includes men, trans women and non-binary people.
If you're a man aged over 65 and you have not been screened before, you can request an appointment by contacting your local screening service.
More information
You can find out more about AAA screening on the NHS website.
You can also find more information in the NHS easy read guide about AAA screening.
To contact your local AAA screening service:
- call 0161 291 5716
- email mft.aaa@mft.nhs.uk