A man from Helen's Bay who discovered a potentially life-threatening condition through a routine check-up is urging others to attend their screening appointments when invited.

Tom Martin found he had a small Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) after attending a screening session shortly after his 65th birthday.

An AAA is a swelling of the main blood vessel that runs from the heart down through the abdomen. The condition is often fatal if it ruptures, and because most people with an aneurysm do not experience symptoms, the screening process is considered essential for early detection.

Mr Martin, who initially hesitated to go until encouraged by his wife, said: "Get the letter and go! I would actively encourage men over 65, once they get the letter inviting them for screening to go. You've nothing to lose, and everything to gain."

Since his diagnosis, Mr Martin has focused on healthy eating and weight management. He added: "I've been eating healthily and thankfully I already gave up smoking years ago. But it just highlights the need to look after yourself." The call for increased awareness came during the thirteenth annual service user event in Belfast, organised by the Public Health Agency (PHA) in collaboration with the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. The event brought together healthcare professionals and over 30 men who have had an AAA detected through the programme to share their experiences and help shape future service developments.

Dr Stephen Bergin, Consultant in Public Health at the PHA, explained: "The AAA screening check is a quick, simple, painless ultrasound scan provided free of charge. Men who have an AAA detected will, depending on the size of the aneurysm, either be monitored with surveillance scans or referred to the specialist vascular team to consider treatment options."

The screening programme, first introduced in July 2012, is offered to men in the year they turn 65 at 26 different locations across Northern Ireland. Invitations are sent to the home address registered with a GP, making it vital for patients to ensure their contact details are up to date.

While anyone can develop an AAA, the risk increases for those who smoke, have high blood pressure, or have a close family member who has suffered from the condition.

Men over the age of 65 who have never been screened can request an appointment by contacting the screening office on (028) 9615 1212. Further information is also available at www.nidirect.gov.uk/aaa.