Ontario launches abdominal aortic aneurysm screening program

The recently announced Ontario Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Program is a first-of-its-kind screening program in Canada that will help save lives by promoting early detection and prevention of ruptures.

The new program will help more people aged 65 and older with early diagnosis and timely treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), reducing the risk of sudden death and the need for emergency surgeries.

“Oak Valley Health’s established screening program—developed in collaboration with the Markham Family Health Team and with support from Lisa Ruddy, Registered Nurse and Clinical Program Manager—is ready to support this provincial initiative. We’re actively accepting referrals and ensuring patients receive the care they need and deserve,” says Dr. Anoosh Sharif, Oak Valley Health radiologist.

AAA is a bulge in the abdominal aorta—the main blood vessel that supplies blood to the lower part of the body. If left untreated, it can silently grow and rupture without warning. If a rupture happens, it causes massive internal bleeding and is often fatal.

“Catching an AAA early, especially for those at increased risk, supports current practice in primary care. This new program will help keep patients informed and increase access to getting screened. Evidence-based initiatives such as this with the goal of improving population health is a welcome announcement,” says Dr. Allan Grill, Oak Valley Health Chief of Family Medicine.

Each year, 20,000 Canadians are diagnosed with an AAA. Patients with risk factors could include those with a smoking history, family history of AAA, being male, hypertension, and more. Although overall prevalence is declining—thanks in part to healthier lifestyles, such as reduced smoking rates and improved diets—screening remains crucial.

“Advancements in surgical techniques and perioperative care have made elective AAA treatment safer and less invasive,” Sharif explains. “That means the benefits of screening still outweigh the risks, even in a population with lower AAA rates.”

The screening test is performed by a registered diagnostic medical sonographer. It’s a simple, non-invasive and targeted abdominal ultrasound that takes up to 15 minutes.

“Screening for AAA is just as effective as many cancer screening programs,” Sharif adds. “Most people screened won’t have an aneurysm, but for those who do, early detection can make all the difference. In many cases, we can treat the aneurysm electively using endovascular techniques, which are far less invasive than traditional open surgery.”

Patients aged 65 and older are encouraged to discuss screening options with their primary care provider.

To learn more about ultrasounds at Oak Valley Health, visit oakvalleyhealth.ca.

Photo: The recently announced Ontario Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Program is a first-of-its-kind screening program in Canada that will help save lives by promoting early detection and prevention of ruptures.  

*Story submitted by Alysia Burdi.