The NHS Health Check is a sophisticated check of your heart health. It works out your risk of getting some of the most disabling (but preventable) illnesses.
Think of it as your "midlife MOT":
- It assess your risk of developing health problems;
- and you get advice on how to reduce it.
Everyone is at risk of getting:
- heart disease;
- stroke;
- type 2 diabetes;
- kidney disease;
- and some forms of dementia.
The good news is that these can often be prevented. It is free of charge, as are any follow up tests or appointments.
How to get an NHS Health Check
You can expect to be invited for a health check every five years, if you are:
- Aged 40 - 74;
- and not already being seen by your GP for a circulatory condition.
The invitation can be:
- By letter from your GP.
- By phone from your GP.
- In person, if you are visiting your GP practice.
Do not worry if you have not had an invitation yet, you will get one in the next few years. If you have already had one, you can expect to have another in five years time.
What to do if you get a letter
Make an appointment for your health check as soon as you can, even if you feel fit and well.
Thousands of people have already done this. They now have information and support to reduce their risk of developing heart and vascular problems.
It is a chance to put right emerging problems. Also, to get personalised advice on keeping yourself healthy and active in the future.
What happens at the NHS Health Check
- You will be asked about your lifestyle and family medical history.
- You will also have some tests to check your:
- blood pressure;
- cholesterol;
- and Body Mass Index (BMI).
From these, your healthcare professional can work out your risk of getting heart disease or stroke. If you are over 65, you will also be told the signs and symptoms of dementia.
- They will explain what your results mean for you.
- You will be offered personalised advice and support. This is to help you stay healthy and lower your risk, if any of your results need improving. You can be given advice about:
- making small changes to your diet;
- becoming more physically active;
- taking medicines to control your blood pressure or cholesterol.
You can also be offered a referral to a local service who can give you more support, such as:
Where to get advice if you are not eligible for the NHS Health Check
You can still get advice and support to help you make changes and live a healthier lifestyle. If you are worried about your health:
- Book an appointment with your GP or practice nurse to discuss your concerns.
- You can also contact the Better Living Team, who can give you information and support. This can help you reach your health goals and enjoy a better quality of life:
- Phone: 01422 230230.
- Email: blt@calderdale.gov.uk.
To see how healthy your heart is, visit: Heart age test.
More information
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