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Psychological morbidity associated with abdominal aortic aneurysm screening
M E Lucarotti1, B P Heather, E Shaw
1Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, U.K.
Summary
Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening does not cause prolonged anxiety, even when an aneurysm is diagnosed. Anxiety levels significantly decreased one month after screening in all participants.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Public Health Screening
- Psychological Impact of Medical Procedures
Background:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening is implemented to reduce mortality.
- The psychological impact of AAA screening, particularly anxiety, requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if AAA screening induces anxiety in participants.
- To assess if diagnosing an AAA leads to sustained anxiety compared to normal findings.
Main Methods:
- Prospective case-controlled study involving 161 men undergoing AAA screening.
- Psychological morbidity assessed using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) pre-screening and one month post-screening.
- Anxiety measured via a linear analogue scale.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in anxiety levels was observed between men with normal aortas and those with diagnosed aneurysms.
- A statistically significant reduction in anxiety was noted in both groups one month after screening.
Conclusions:
- Invitation to AAA screening may cause transient anxiety.
- Anxiety associated with AAA screening is not prolonged, even with an asymptomatic aneurysm diagnosis.