Author(s)

Monica Pettersson, Birgitta Gedda, Ina Berndsson

Department of Vascular Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Institute of Nursing, Health and Culture, University West, Trollhättan, Sweden.
Research and Development Unit, Primary Health Care Fyrbodal, Vänersborg, Sweden.

Background: The purpose of AAA screening is to prevent rupture and mortality. Screening for life-threatening diseases is a double-edged sword. The aim of this study is to describe 65-year-old men’s experiences of health related quality of life and anxiety after screening for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm, and experiences of information and reasons for not participating. Methods: 368 men answered Short Form 36 (SF-36), and anxiety and depression scale (HAD). 72 telephone interviews were conducted with the participants and 77 with those who declined to take part in the screening programme. Results: The SF-36 domains of Physical Function and Role limitations due to emotional health problems were significantly better for men who had undergone screening compared to a matched population. Compared to non-smokers, smokers had lower values in the SF-36 domains of general health perceptions, social functioning, role limitations due to emotional health problems and mental health. 80% of patients did not experience any form of anxiety/panic in connection with the screening invitation. Of the men who did not participate, 56% stated that they would like to be screened or had already undergone the examination. Conclusion: The men who underwent the investigation were healthier in some of the SF-36 domains than the general population. The participants did not experience any great anxiety before the screening and despite the short duration of the examination.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm, Nursing, Screening, Prevention

Pettersson, M. , Gedda, B. and Berndsson, I. (2014) Experiences of Screening for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm—In and Out on Five Minutes. Health, 6, 1385-1395. doi: 10.4236/health.2014.612170.