The NHS abdominal aortic aneurysm screening programme aims to reduce deaths from ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms through early detection, appropriate monitoring and treatment.
Large aneurysms are rare but can be very serious. As the wall of the aorta stretches it becomes weaker and could burst. If this happens, your chance of surviving is only about 20 out of 100. Surgery is the most common treatment to repair large aneurysms that are found through screening.
Approximately 97 to 98 out of every 100 patients make a full recovery from AAA repair surgery. An aorta which is only slightly larger than normal is not dangerous. However, it is still important to know about it and to monitor its growth at regular intervals.
How to get a scan
Men in their 65th year are automatically invited for an ultrasound scan.
What to do if you haven't received an invite
If you, or a family member or friend, are male and over the age of 65 and have not yet been screened you can refer yourself into the screening programme by contacting our office 01223 256909.
- We will take your name and address and send out a self-referral pack which includes a explanation leaflet and a form to fill out.
- Complete form and send it back to:
Cambridge University Hospitals
Addenbrooke's Hospital
Box 288
ATC Level 5
Hills Road
Cambridge
CB2 0QQ - We will send you an appointment by letter within eight weeks of receiving your completed form.
Where to go for a scan
The Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and West Suffolk programme is based in the Addenbrooke's treatment centre on Level 5. We scan across the region in GP surgeries, hospitals and health centres.
