AAA stands for abdominal aortic aneurysm. This is a swelling in the aorta, which is the main blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the tummy.
AAA screening is a free NHS test offered to all men in England during the year they turn 65. Anyone assigned male at birth who is over 64 can have AAA screening. This includes men, trans women and non-binary people who were assigned male at birth.
The screening test is a simple, painless ultrasound scan of the tummy. It usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes.
You will usually receive an invitation letter for a pre-booked appointment during the year you turn 65. If you are over 65 and have not previously been screened, you can contact your local AAA screening service to request an appointment.
AAA screening is not routinely offered to people at lower risk, including men under 65, women, or people who have already had treatment for an abdominal aortic aneurysm. If you are concerned that you may be at higher risk, for example due to family history, smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes or COPD, please speak to a GP.
Please make sure the surgery has your correct contact details, including your name, date of birth, address and telephone number, so that you receive your screening invitation.
Further information is available on the NHS website: Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening.