An NHS health check is a free check-up that is offered to anyone between the ages of 40 and 74 without pre-existing health conditions every five years. This checkup is well worth getting, as it can allow you to see what measures you should take to improve your long-term health.

What it’s for

The NHS health check is for cardiovascular health and so assesses your risks of certain health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke. Once you’re over the age of 65, it will also help you look out for symptoms of dementia.

During the test, you will be weighed and measured, including a waist measurement. A healthcare professional will also take your blood pressure and may run a cholesterol and blood sugar level test.

They will ask you about smoking and drinking alcohol, providing advice on how to reduce these if appropriate. During or after your appointment, you will be given a risk score for your chances of developing cardiovascular disease, along with information on how to improve your score.

Other health checks

NHS health checks do not check for all conditions. For example, if you are worried about hearing loss, it is worth finding out who will offer hearing tests in your area. A relevant internet search, such as ‘hearing test Cheltenham’, will deliver results like www.imperialhearing.com/audiologist-near-me/cheltenham/.

The NHS does have a range of other tests, including screening for certain kinds of cancer. However, if you have any health concerns, do not wait for a checkup, but make an appointment to see your GP.