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Population screening reduces mortality rate from aortic aneurysm in men
B P Heather1, K R Poskitt, J J Earnshaw
1Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, Gloucester and Cheltenham General Hospital, Cheltenham, UK.
The British Journal of Surgery
|June 10, 2000
Summary
Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm in men aged 65 significantly reduced aneurysm-related deaths. This study in Gloucestershire found a statistically significant decrease in mortality among screened men, highlighting the benefits of early detection.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Public Health Screening
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture is a leading cause of mortality in men over 65.
- Early detection and elective repair are crucial for reducing deaths.
- A screening program for 65-year-old men began in Gloucestershire in 1990.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a population-based screening program on abdominal aortic aneurysm mortality.
- To assess changes in aneurysm-related death rates in a screened versus an unscreened population.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of death records (hospital, post-mortem, computerized certificates) from 1994-1998.
- Calculation of total aortic aneurysm-related deaths in the county.
- Comparison of mortality rates in men aged 65-73 (progressively screened) with other age groups.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant progressive decrease in aneurysm-related deaths was observed in men aged 65-73 between 1994 and 1998 (P < 0.001).
- No similar reduction in mortality was found in the unscreened segment of the population.
- The findings indicate a direct correlation between the screening program and reduced mortality.
Conclusions:
- Population screening for asymptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysm leads to a significant reduction in mortality.
- Early detection through screening programs is effective in lowering deaths from aortic aneurysms.
- Screening initiatives are vital for improving outcomes in at-risk male populations.