Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening and the Irish context.

Abstract

Introduction: The 2024 European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) guidelines mark a paradigm shift in recommendations for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening, moving from population-specific to risk-based criteria. Whilst the aim of this approach is to foster local adaptation, countries, like Ireland, have yet to develop corresponding national guidance.

Aim: This commentary explores the implications of this shift, contrasts the 2019 and 2024 ESVS recommendations, and highlights the critical need for updates in Irish-specific screening framework grounded in local epidemiology and international best practice.

Methods: The paper incorporates evidence from ESVS guidelines, systematic reviews, cost-benefit analyses, and international comparisons to create a narrative discussion on AAA screening in the Irish context and recommend proposals for change.

Results: The results of this review support ultrasound screening for men aged 65 years or older with a smoking history or atherosclerotic disease risk factors. Screening should also be recommended for individuals with peripheral aneurysms or a history of organ transplantation. Individuals with a strong family history (i.e. first degree relative) should continue ultrasound screening at the age of 50.

Conclusion: The shift in guidelines toward localised, high-risk screening frameworks requires countries to act. Ireland currently lacks the infrastructure and policy to support this change, leaving vulnerable populations at risk. Until a formal national screening strategy is implemented, informal and inconsistent screening will continue to depend on individual physician initiative. In this interim period, it is essential to equip clinicians with updated contemporary literature to accurately identify high-risk individuals who would benefit from screening.