American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

For men with a history of smoking, what is the guideline for AAA screening?

1. Once at age 75

2. Once between ages 65 and 75

3. Every 5 years after age 70

4. Screening is not recommended

The correct answer is: Once between ages 65 and 75

For men with a history of smoking, the guideline for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening recommends that they should be screened once between the ages of 65 and 75. This recommendation is based on evidence that smoking is a significant risk factor for developing AAA, and the screening is aimed at detecting any potential aneurysms early, allowing for monitoring or intervention if necessary. The optimal window for screening aligns with the increased prevalence of AAA in older adults, particularly among male smokers. The rationale is also to balance the benefits of early detection and treatment against the risks and costs of screening, making this age range the most effective for such assessments. Other options either propose screening at too late an age, suggest unnecessary frequency, or indicate that screening isn't needed, which would not align with the established guidelines that specifically target the high-risk demographic of older male smokers. Therefore, the emphasis on this age category ensures that those at greatest risk are appropriately assessed in a timely manner.