CEREDIGION men aged 65 are being encouraged to take up an offer of a free NHS screening test which could save their life.

The Wales Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Programme (WAAASP) offers men a quick, painless, one-off ultrasound scan to check for a condition that can be life-threatening, if left undetected.

Screening clinics are held regularly in locations across Wales, such as community hospitals, community health facilities and GP practices.

An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) can happen to anybody but it is most common in men aged 65 and over who smoke; have high blood pressure; high cholesterol or have a family history of AAA.

Men who are eligible to be screened will receive an invitation letter and information leaflet, offering them an appointment at a local screening clinic.

Llywela Wilson, Head of the Wales AAA Screening Programme said: “We would encourage all men who receive an appointment for AAA screening in Ceredigion to take up the offer for this quick, free and very important health check.”

She added: “The ultrasound scan itself takes just a few minutes of your time, but it really could help save your life. Around 95 out of 100 men screened will have a normal result, where no AAA is detected, and they will not need to be screened again.”

For further information visit www.aaascreening.wales.nhs.uk or call 01792 453 162.