This newsletter provides healthcare professionals with an update on the development of the Northern Ireland Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening Programme, which is due to roll-out in June 2012.
The aim of the programme is to reduce AAA-related mortality by providing systematic, population-based screening for men in their 65th year.
There is evidence of a significant reduction (45%) in mortality from AAA in those men aged between 65 and 79 years who undergo ultrasound screening. Men older than 65 years will be able to opt into the programme and request screening through the central screening office.
There is also evidence of the long-term cost-effectiveness of AAA screening in men and further evidence that the early mortality benefit from screening is maintained.
Details
Format A4, 3 pages
Target group Healthcare professionals