Pilot project for abdominal aortic aneurysm screening

AAA (abdominal aortic aneurysm) is a condition characterized by a local enlargement of the abdominal aorta diameter of 30 mm or more. AAA is a potentially life-threatening condition because if it progresses and remains untreated surgically, the abdominal aorta may rupture, resulting in a mortality rate of up to 90%. Due to the high mortality, AAA in Estonia results in significant health loss annually, with an annual treatment cost of approximately 1.5 million euros. Therefore, timely detection and surgical treatment of AAA are crucial, and the situation could be improved by implementing a population-based AAA screening program. The aim of the pilot project is to assess the feasibility of abdominal aortic aneurysm screening in Estonia based on two centers with the necessary expertise (Tartu University Hospital, North Estonia Medical Centre), in order to provide necessary input from the data obtained for the launch of a nationwide screening program. In addition to feasibility assessment, the focus is also on achieving a high coverage rate of the target group (at least 75%) and establishing a screening registry.