AAA screening invitation explained

Overview

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a bulge or swelling in the aorta, the main blood vessel that runs from your heart down through your abdomen. It happens when a section of the artery wall weakens and balloons out. If it grows too large, it can burst (rupture), which is a medical emergency.

AAAs are relatively common in older men. About 1 in 70 men over the age of 65 have one. They are less common in women and younger people.

AAA mainly affects men aged 65 and older. People who smoke or have high blood pressure are also at higher risk. Women can get it too, but much less often.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Most AAAs have no symptoms at all. That is why screening is important.

Symptoms in children

• AAA is extremely rare in children. If it happens, it is usually due to a genetic condition.

Symptoms in older adults

• Some older adults may feel a pulsating sensation in their abdomen (like a heartbeat).
• A large AAA can cause deep, constant pain in the back, side, or belly.

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause is not always clear, but it involves a weakening of the artery wall.
• Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) can contribute.

Risk factors

• Smoking – this is the biggest risk factor.
• High blood pressure (hypertension).
• Getting older – especially being over 65.
• Being male.
• Having a close family member (father, brother) who had an AAA.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Any symptoms of a possible rupture – call emergency services immediately.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you receive a screening invitation (usually men turning 65), attend your appointment.
• If you think you are at high risk and have not been screened, talk to your GP.

Diagnosis

An AAA is usually found using an abdominal ultrasound scan. This is the same type of scan used to look at a baby during pregnancy.

Tests that may be done

• Abdominal ultrasound – a probe is moved over your belly with some gel. It shows images of your aorta.

What to expect at your appointment

You lie on your back, lift your shirt, and the ultrasound technician puts warm gel on your abdomen. The scan takes about 10–15 minutes. It is painless and has no side effects. You get the result straight away or by post.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the size and growth of the aneurysm. Small or stable aneurysms are usually watched with regular ultrasound scans. Larger or fast-growing ones may need surgery to repair the artery before it bursts.

Self-care at home

• If you have a small AAA, you can help keep it from growing by stopping smoking.
• Keep your blood pressure under control by following your doctor’s advice.
• Eat a heart‑healthy diet and stay physically active.

Medical treatments

Doctors may prescribe medicines to lower blood pressure or cholesterol. These help reduce the strain on the artery wall. Always take any medication exactly as your doctor tells you.

When is surgery considered?

If your AAA reaches a certain size (usually about 5.5 cm in men) or is growing quickly, your specialist may recommend surgery. There are two main types: open surgery (cutting into the abdomen to replace the weak section) or endovascular repair (a stent graft inserted through a small cut in the groin). Your surgeon will explain which is best for you.

Living with this condition

With a small or medium AAA, you can usually live a normal life. You will need regular ultrasound scans to monitor the size. Many people with a small AAA never need surgery.

Lifestyle tips

• Stop smoking – this is the most important thing you can do.
• Manage your blood pressure and cholesterol with diet and medication if prescribed.
• Avoid heavy lifting or intense straining that might increase abdominal pressure – ask your doctor for specific advice.

Diet and exercise

Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit salt, saturated fat, and sugar. Moderate exercise like walking, swimming, or cycling is encouraged – but check with your doctor before starting a new routine, especially if your aneurysm is large.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is normal to feel anxious or worried when you learn you have an AAA. Talking to your doctor, a counsellor, or a support group can help. Remember, many AAAs never cause problems.

Prevention

You cannot completely prevent an AAA, but you can lower your risk by not smoking, keeping your blood pressure healthy, eating well, and staying active.

Screening programmes

The NHS offers a one‑time ultrasound screening for all men when they turn 65. If you are a woman or a younger man with a strong family history of AAA, ask your GP if screening is right for you.

Complications

If left untreated

• The main complication is a ruptured AAA. This causes massive internal bleeding and is life‑threatening.
• Even with emergency surgery, only about half of people survive a rupture.

Long-term outlook

The outlook is very good when an AAA is found early. With small aneurysms, you can continue your normal life with regular checks. If surgery is needed, planned repair is much safer than emergency surgery. Most people recover well and go on to live active lives.

Find support

Local organisations

• NHS AAA Screening Programme · England

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