AA screening saves lives

On a recent Saturday morning, Deborah Heart and Lung Center held a screening clinic that resulted in two saved lives and reassurances for many others. This important clinic screened patients at higher risk for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), a silent and often symptomless bulge in the lining of the body’s main artery. This condition can be fatal if left undetected.

Knowledge and care

Deborah screened 40 patients older than age 65 who were considered at risk for AAA: those with high blood pressure; individuals who have a family history of AAAs; those who previously had coronary artery bypass surgery; or former smokers. Happily, an AAA was identified in only two patients who had the simple five-minute screening.

“The vast majority of those who came to the clinic that day left feeling relieved, knowing that they’re not walking around with this hidden danger,” says event organizer Kane Chang, M.D., Director of Vascular Surgery at Deborah. “The two patients who were referred to a physician for care are now knowledgeable about their previously undetected aneurysm. With specialty care, their AAA will be repaired, and their chances of having no subsequent long-term damage will greatly increase. This clinic was truly a lifesaver for those patients.”

Don’t delay this screening!

To learn more about AAA screening or to schedule an appointment with Kane Chang, M.D., call Deborah at 1-800-555-1990.