Population-based pilot screening programme for abdominal aortic aneurysm in the Czech Republic

Abstract

A population-based pilot screening programme for abdominal aortic aneurysm was launched in the Czech Republic on January 1, 2025. Its goal is not only early diagnosis of the disease, but also the collection of key data that will make health statistics more accurate. The target population includes all men aged 65-67. Men are referred by their general practitioner for ultrasound examination to accredited ultrasound centers. With the findings, they return to the general practitioner, who will perform basic triage based on the results of the ultrasound examination. Patients with a positive finding are then dispensarized and treated in cardiovascular centers across the Czech Republic. The pilot programme will last for 5 years. This period will serve to evaluate the benefits and effectiveness of the programme. Major statement: A population-based pilot screening programme for abdominal aortic aneurysm in the Czech Republic has been launched.

Keywords: abdominal aorta; aneurysm; mass screening; screening.