'This test was a lifesaver for me... everyone should get checked out'

DAD SAID ROUTINE SCAN PICKED UP UNDIAGNOSED HEART CONDITION THAT COULD HAVE KILLED HIM

- By HELENA VESTY

AN entertainer discovered he had a deadly condition that could have ruptured his main artery after attending a routine screening.

Rob Shaw, 72, an entertainer from Liverpool, was diagnosed with a small abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) following routine screening at 65.

But it was only earlier this year the swelling in his aorta became large enough for surgery, meaning he had to sit tight and wait for more than five years before he and doctors could act.

AAA is a bulge in the aorta, which is the largest artery in the body.

If the AAA ruptures, it can be deadly, and around 82 per cent of people with an untreated AAA will die from it.

But the NHS offers a 10-minute, pain free scan of the abdomen (tummy) for all men in the year they turn 65, that can detect any swelling early, reduce the chances of rupture, and save lives.

Rob is urging others to take up the invite of the AAA screening.