CompletedObservational

Improving the quality of care for men with Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) who undergo regular screening: reducing the psychosocial consequences of screening and developing a patient-centred Exit Strategy from surveillance

The main blood vessel supplying blood to your body is called the aorta. Sometimes, a bulge called an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) develops in the tummy area. In the UK, men aged 65 are offered screening scans. If a small or medium bulge is found, men have regular checks called 'surveillance' to monitor it. While regular scans help keep men safe, waiting for results can cause significant anxiety and emotional strain for both men and their families. Furthermore, as men grow older, surgery may no longer be safe, creating difficult decisions about stopping scans. Researchers at the University of Sheffield want to improve care for these men. By using surveys, interviews, and design workshops, this project brings together patients, partners, and healthcare staff. Together, they aim to create practical tools and support services that reduce worry and help men make confident choices about their ongoing care.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

University of Sheffield

Enrolment target

1,350

Start

01 May 2023

Estimated completion

30 Jun 2025

Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening

What is this study about?

The aorta is the largest blood vessel in your body, running from your heart down through your chest and tummy. An abdominal aortic aneurysm, or AAA, happens when the wall of this vessel weakens and bulges outward. If an aneurysm grows too large, it can burst, which is life-threatening. To catch this early, the NHS offers a simple ultrasound scan to all men in the UK when they turn 65. If a small or medium bulge is discovered, it does not need immediate surgery, but it does need to be watched closely. Around 15,000 men in England are currently monitored with regular scans every few months or once a year.

While regular monitoring saves lives by spotting growth early, living with a known bulge can be stressful. Many men describe feeling anxious, uncertain, and worried about their future. Many also feel a burden to hide their fears so they do not upset their partners or families. Additionally, as men get older or develop other health conditions, surgery may become too risky. In those situations, doctors and patients must decide when it is best to stop regular scans, which can feel daunting.

This study, led by the University of Sheffield, aims to address both problems. By listening closely to men and their loved ones, researchers want to uncover the exact moments when worry is at its highest. The team will then work directly with patients and NHS staff to build new support tools, such as helpful information guides or emotional support services, ensuring men feel informed, heard, and supported throughout their care.

Key takeaways

Aims to reduce worry and anxiety for men having regular scans for an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
Open to men aged 64 to 100 in the UK who are currently having regular aneurysm monitoring scans.
Partners and family members are also invited to share their experiences and ideas.
Involves simple surveys, interviews, and design workshops—no drugs or extra medical tests.
Funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and running until late 2025.

Who may be eligible?

This study is open to adult men aged between 64 and 100 who have had an abdominal aortic aneurysm detected and are currently enrolled in regular NHS surveillance scans. In some stages of the study, researchers will also invite the partners or family members of these men to share their thoughts, as an aneurysm diagnosis often affects the whole household.

Certain parts of the study will focus specifically on men who find that regular scans trigger worry, stress, or emotional difficulties. To take part, you must have agreed to be contacted by health researchers. Men who have asked not to be approached for research will not be included.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

I am a man aged between 64 and 100.
I have been diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).
I am currently having regular monitoring scans (surveillance) through the NHS.
I am happy to talk about my experiences or complete a survey about my health and feelings.
I have agreed to be contacted regarding health research.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Taking part does not involve any experimental drugs, invasive procedures, or changes to your normal NHS ultrasound appointments. Instead, the study is divided into stages. Around 1,200 men will first be asked to fill in a survey about their feelings, overall well-being, and experiences with the scanning service. Following the survey, approximately 20 men and their partners will be invited for an in-depth conversation or interview to talk in greater detail about what causes them stress and what kind of support would help.

Later in the project, some men and their families will join workshops with nurses and doctors to help design new support materials and clear plans for when scans should stop. Finally, volunteers will try out these new support tools to check if they are easy to use and genuinely helpful. The overall research project runs until September 2025, but your personal involvement will generally consist of completing a questionnaire or attending one or two discussions.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part will not change the medical treatment of your aneurysm, but you will play an active role in shaping how the NHS supports thousands of men in the future. Because this study talks about health worries, some people might find discussing their aneurysm mildly upsetting. The researchers are highly experienced, and you can pause or stop your interview at any time. If you feel distressed, the team can immediately connect you with your specialist aneurysm nurse or GP. Taking part is completely voluntary, and you can withdraw at any point without affecting your routine NHS care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
City only
Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Common questions

Will taking part change when I have my ultrasound scans?

No. Your regular NHS scans will continue exactly as scheduled by your local screening team.

Does this trial test any new operations or medicines?

No. This is a healthcare and psychological study looking at emotional well-being and communication; no new medications or operations are involved.

Can my wife or partner take part with me?

Yes. Researchers recognize that waiting for scans affects families too, and partners are warmly invited to take part in the interviews and workshops.

What happens if I start to feel too anxious during an interview?

You can take a break or stop the conversation at any moment. The researchers can also put you in touch with your screening nurse or GP for additional support.

Do I have to travel to Sheffield to take part?

Not necessarily. Surveys are typically completed by post or online, and many research interviews or workshops can be conducted over the telephone or by video call.

How to find out more

Alicia O'Cathain

a.ocathain@sheffield.ac.uk +44 114 222 0770 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.