Vascular Center Community Screening Program
The mission of the Community Screening Program at The Vascular Center at UM BWMC is to educate the community and detect major vascular problems including abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and carotid artery disease. You may be a good candidate for a screening — read the frequently asked questions to learn more.
Vascular Screening FAQs
Who should be screened?
People over 50 (particularly men) have a higher risk of vascular disease. Additional risk factors for vascular disease include:
- High blood pressure
- High blood cholesterol
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Family history of vascular disease
- Prior stroke
The Vascular Center Community Screening Program is a primary screening tool and therefore it is important to share your results with your primary health care provider. If you have been previously screened by the Vascular Community Screening Program and had a normal screening, you are eligible to be rescreened in five years.
What are the components of a vascular screening?
The diagnosis of vascular disorders is done using non-invasive, state-of-the-art ultrasound and Doppler technology. Performed by registered vascular technologists, exams usually take less than 20 minutes to complete. Participants will need to remove their shoes and be able to allow access to their abdomen, neck and ankles.
- Aortic Scan – A painless risk-free ultrasound scan can diagnose an AAA and accurately measure its size to determine the need for treatment.
- PAD Screen – A simple Doppler exam can accurately diagnose PAD. When PAD is treated, people are usually able to walk farther and have a reduced risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Carotid Scan – Carotid artery disease can be easily and accurately diagnosed using an ultrasound scan that is simple, painless and takes only a few minutes.
When are screening results available?
All screening results are reviewed with a physician or nurse practitioner from The Vascular Center immediately following the screening. Participants leave the screening with a copy of their results to share with their health care provider.
Where are screenings offered and how do I sign up?
Vascular screenings are held at various locations throughout the year. If you would like to speak to someone about our vascular screening program, please call 410-787-4391.
What is the cost of the screening?
As part of its commitment to the community, UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center provides vascular screenings at no cost.
How can I find out about hosting a vascular screening at my church, senior center or civic organization?
UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center partners with community-based organizations such as senior centers, places of worship and civic organizations to host vascular screenings. If your organization is interested in hosting a screening, please call 410-787-4391.
