For many older men working in industries or large factories, booking an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening might not be a priority. Although the NHS sends automatic invitations to men at age 65, those working far from home may misplace their appointment letters or never receive them.
Recognizing this challenge, Somerset NHS Foundation Trust’s screening team is taking AAA screening to workplaces like Numatic in Chard and Hinkley Point C in Bridgwater. Their goal is to raise awareness and provide convenient, potentially life-saving scans for men who might otherwise miss out.
Bryan Shenington-Price, one of the Trust’s AAA screening practitioners, explains, “The national programme screens every man at 65 because AAA is a silent, life-threatening condition. It can develop without symptoms, and by the time symptoms appear, it may be too late.”
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The Somerset and North Devon screening programme consistently ranks among the top in the country, with around 88% of patients attending their appointments. The team is now focusing on reaching men who haven’t yet been screened or might be unaware of their options.
“It’s important to note,” Bryan adds, “that men are six times more likely than women to have an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which is why screening targets men specifically.”
Workplaces like Numatic and Hinkley Point C were chosen because they employ many men and have mobile workforces who might miss standard appointment invitations. Previous visits to Hinkley Point B showed positive results, encouraging the expansion of this approach.
Lorna Hewart, the screening service manager, emphasizes, “AAA screening doesn’t have the same public recognition as breast, cervical, or bowel screening. It’s a one-time ultrasound scan for men over 65, unless an aneurysm of significant size is found.”
Hinkley Point’s workforce travels extensively between power stations, making on-site screening essential. “Our sessions at workplaces and community centres have been well received,” Lorna says.
Feedback from employers underscores the program’s success. Numatic’s wellbeing officer praised the onsite expertise, while Hinkley Point C’s occupational health manager thanked the team for supporting their Zero Harm week.
Lorna points out that the team often reaches men indirectly through their families, partners, and loved ones. “We also engage with men’s sheds, talking cafes, and homeless charities, aiming to reach those who might find it difficult to attend medical appointments otherwise.”
Bryan adds, “About one in 100 men screened discover an aneurysm. Small aneurysms need monitoring, but larger ones might require surgery to prevent rupture. The risks are carefully weighed before treatment.”
If men miss two appointments, they are removed from the list but can always self-refer later. The service remains available for anyone ready to book.
“We encourage all men aged 65 or over who haven’t been screened to contact us,” Lorna says. “Appointments are quick, painless ultrasound scans done at local GP surgeries or community hospitals. Just email [email protected] or call 01823 344567 to book.”