An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the aorta, which is the largest artery in the body. If the AAA ruptures, it can be deadly, and around 82% of people with an untreated AAA will die from it.

The NHS offers a 10-minute, pain free scan of the abdomen (tummy) for all men in the year they turn 65, that can detect any swelling early, reduce the chances of rupture, and save lives.

However, in the year to April 2024, just 78.9% of men in the North West came forward for screening within the year they were invited. 

Tricia Spedding, head of public health for NHS England North West, said: ‘Of all the screening programmes the NHS offers, AAA screening is the least well known, and yet the risk of an undetected and untreated AAA is one of the most deadly.

‘We hope this brand-new campaign raises awareness of AAA screening across the North West, not just with men aged 65-and-over, but also with younger men who will eventually be called for screening, and with friends and family, who can support their loved ones to come forward for their AAA check.' 

AAA screening is recommended for anyone born male, as they are more likely to have an abdominal aortic aneurysm. The test usually takes place in a GP practice or a health centre, but sometimes can be in hospital, and all men registered with a GP will be invited for screening in their 65th year.

It is estimated AAA rupture occurs in about 1 in 10,000 people annually, primarily affecting men over 65-years-old with risk factors like smoking, high blood pressure, and a family history of aneurysms.