Like many men, Les had never heard of an abdominal aortic aneurysm screening before the invitation arrived in the post in his 65^th year.

Les Ruffell, who lives in Leeds, recalls: “I remember the letter from the NHS arriving in the post – and I’ll be honest, I didn’t really know what the aorta was!

However, I thought it must be important and made sure I organised an appointment to get it all checked out.”

Now, 10 years on from undergoing open surgery to repair the aneurysm detected at that appointment, Les often looks back on that invite and is assured about the fact it saved his life.

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a swelling in the aorta, the artery that carries blood from the heart to the tummy. Most aneurysms do not cause any problems, but they can be serious because there’s a risk they could rupture.

All men in England are invited by the NHS for AAA screening in the year they turn 65—a service available for over 15 years—yet some remain unaware of it.

Many aneurysms develop without symptoms, making screening the only way to catch them early. The test is quick and simple. A small (ultrasound) device is placed on the stomach to allow a technician to measure the width of the aorta and provide an instant result.

Mary Prideaux was the screening technician on the day Les arrived for his appointment. He was found to have a large aneurysm.

Mary said: “The vast majority of men will get the all-clear, but when an aneurysm is found, it’s very often in men with no symptoms -just like in Les’ case. That’s why it’s so important to attend your appointment. The test is quick, painless, and could very well save your life”

Treatment for an abdominal aortic aneurysm usually depends on how big it is and if you have symptoms:

• If it’s small, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and eating healthily may be recommended to help stop it getting bigger.
• If it’s large (5.5cm or bigger), as in Les’s case, surgery is usually recommended to reduce the risk of the aneurysm bursting.

In the 10 years since his surgery, Les has taken on various roles as a patient representative, contributing to service guidance and is determined to encourage more men to attend their AAA screening appointment.

Les said: “That appointment saved my life—it’s as simple as that. I’d urge any man to take the opportunity and get checked when invited in their 65^th year. It could make all the difference.”

Watch Les’ video here:

You’ll have the AAA screening test once, unless an aneurysm is found. If the NHS has invited you for your AAA screening but missed your appointment, you can still contact your GP practice to arrange one.

If you or someone you know is eligible for an AAA screening, don’t hesitate—accept the invitation. It could make all the difference. More information on the programme is available here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/abdominal-aortic-aneurysm-screening/