Public Health Agency Northern Ireland (AAA Screening Programme)

The Northern Ireland AAA Screening Programme offers AAA screening to all men in their 65th year in Northern Ireland and was implemented in June 2012 on a phased basis within the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust area. Full roll-out of AAA screening commenced from July 2012 throughout the rest of Northern Ireland.

The aim of the AAA screening programme is to reduce AAA-related mortality by providing systematic, population-based screening using a simple ultrasound scan.

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.

The items available for download here were part of the professional information packs sent out to all GPs, GP practice managers and pharmacies prior to the launch of the programme. Please note that pharmacies received a copy of the AAA screening invitation leaflet, but not the three results leaflets.