Life-saving NHS screening appointments available

THE Venue in Stocksbridge will be hosting an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) screening clinic for men aged 65 and above on Thursday November 22.

An AAA is a swelling of the main blood vessel in the body, the aorta, which can weaken and expand. There are no symptoms and if left untreated the swelling can lead to a rupture and a risk of death from internal bleeding.

Clinicians are urging local men to get in touch and make an appointment for the quick, easy and painless five minute ultrasound scan.

Babatunde Fakolade, AAA Screening Programme Coordinator for South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw, said:

In England and Wales there are approximately 3,000 deaths each year in men aged 65 and over from AAAs. As there are no signs and symptoms of the illness, it’s crucial that those of this age take advantage of this potentially lifesaving scan.

The test is a very simple check of the abdomen which takes just a few minutes and is completely painless and non-invasive. Results are given straight away, meaning you can pop in, be seen and enjoy the rest of your day.”

Men in their 65th year are invited for AAA screening by letter, but men over 65 who have not previously been screened can make an appointment by contacting the South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw AAA Screening Programme on 01709 649100.

Gina Bastiani, organiser of the event, said:

I want to encourage all men local to Stocksbridge, Deepcar and other surrounding areas to book an appointment for this clinic. It’s just another way that you can give yourself a bit of an MOT and ensure you’re in good health.”

The clinic will take place on Thursday November 22 at The Venue, 650 Manchester Rd, Stocksbridge, Sheffield S36 1AJ. Please note, appointments must be booked beforehand. For more information on AAAs, visit the South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw website at: http://aaa.dbh.nhs. uk/