A 68-year-old male is evaluated during a routine exam. An abdominal duplex ultrasound shows an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) with a maximum diameter of 3.5 cm. What is the most appropriate next step in management for this patient?
a) Annual surveillance with abdominal ultrasound
b) Referral for elective repair
c) Initiation of medical therapy with a beta-blocker
d) Discharge home with reassurance and lifestyle modification advice