Main content

    Health Information

    Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening

    Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening



    Topic Overview

    Reference Abdominal aortic aneurysms Opens New Window can be found during an Reference ultrasound Opens New Window screening test. Screening tests help your doctor look for a certain disease or condition before any symptoms appear.

    Your doctor may recommend a screening test if you are a man who is:

    • Age 65 to 75 and has ever smoked.Reference 1
    • At least 60 years old and who has a first-degree relative (for example, father or brother) who has had an aneurysm.Reference 2

    Some doctors think that other groups should be screened too. Some say all men 65 years and older should be screened, regardless of their risk. Some say men as young as 50 should be screened if they have a family history. Some say women age 65 and older should be screened if they have ever smoked or have a family history of AAA. Some say women should not be screened at all.

    Talk to your doctor about whether the benefits of screening would outweigh the risks in your case. For more information, see:

    Opens New Window Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Should I Get a Screening Test? Opens New Window

    People who have Reference Marfan's syndrome Opens New Window, Reference Ehlers-Danlos syndrome Opens New Window, or another condition that puts them at risk may benefit from screening.



    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.