Ontario has become the first province in Canada to launch a population-based screening program for abdominal aortic aneurysms, a condition that often has no symptoms but can be deadly if left undetected.
The Ontario Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Program will focus on early detection through abdominal ultrasounds, which are free, safe and only take a few minutes. People aged 65 and older are encouraged to get checked, with those turning 65 beginning to receive screening letters in the mail.
“Abdominal aortic aneurysms affect 20,000 people across the country each year, and we know early detection and prevention of aortic ruptures will save lives,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “Our government is proud to take this historic step by launching the first Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Program in Canada, connecting more Ontarians to the care they need, where and when they need it.”
A rupture survivor, Vinicio Miccoli, said he knows how critical this step is. “I cannot overstate the importance of having everyone know that this quick and painless ultrasound can detect a possible silent, life-threatening aneurysm and help people get timely, effective and proactive care.”
Medical leaders echoed the importance of prevention. “This is a truly important milestone,” said Matthew Anderson, president and CEO of Ontario Health. “Screening will allow for early detection, potentially preventing rupture, enabling repair and avoiding other complications. This translates to improved health outcomes for patients and a reduction in the emergency surgeries that are required when an aneurysm ruptures.”
Dr. Varun Kapila, Ontario Health’s provincial clinical lead for vascular care, said he has seen how valuable the tests can be. “With this launch, Ontario will lead the country as the first provincial health system to implement a systematic population-based abdominal aortic aneurysm screening program. I have seen firsthand how a simple, 10-minute ultrasound can save lives.”
The province says by spring 2026, the program will expand to include all seniors aged 65 to 80, with plans underway for eligible patients to have the option to self-refer directly to ultrasound labs.
The initiative is part of Ontario’s broader health plan, which emphasizes diagnosing illnesses earlier, expanding access to care and reducing the need for emergency interventions.
