NHS Health Check
Working together to improve your health
Our clinicians are strong believers of preventative medicine; everyone is at risk of developing chronic diseases such as Heart Disease, Diabetes, Kidney Disease and some forms of dementia. Fortunately, these conditions can be prevented! (Even if you have a history of them in your family.
To be prepared for the future and be informed on small changes to maintain and improve your health, we offer a free Annual Health Check.
Why do I need an NHS Health Check?
With age, your risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, Type 2 Diabetes and Kidney disease increases. Along with this, there are also certain things that put you at an even greater risk, some of these are:
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Being overweight
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Being physically inactive
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Not eating healthily
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Smoking
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Drinking too much alcohol
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High blood pressure
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High cholesterol
Both men and women can develop these conditions, and having once could increase your risk of developing another in the future.
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In the brain a blocked artery or a bleed can cause a Stroke.
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In the heart a blocked artery can cause a Heart attack or Angina.
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The kidneys can be damaged by High Blood Pressure or Diabetes, causing Chronic Kidney Disease and increasing your risk of having a Heart Attack.
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Being overweight and physically inactive can lead to Type 2 Diabetes.
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If these aren't recognised and treated appropriately, Type 2 Diabetes could increase your risk of further health problems, including Heart Disease, Kidney Disease and Stroke.
What happens at the check?
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This check is to assess your risk of developing Heart Disease, Type 2 Diabetes, Kidney Disease, and Stroke.
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The check will only take about 20–30 minutes and will be done by our in-house Practice Nurse
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You’ll be asked some simple questions., for example, about your family history and choices which may put your health at risk
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We’ll record your height, weight, age, sex, and ethnicity.
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We’ll take your blood pressure.
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We will check your recent blood test results to check your cholesterol level.
What happens after the check?
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We will discuss how you can reduce your risk and stay healthy.
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You’ll be taken through your results and told what they mean. Some people may be asked to return at a later date for their results.
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You’ll be given personalised advice on how to lower your risk and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
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Some people with raised blood pressure will have their kidneys checked through a blood test.
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Treatment or medication may be prescribed to help you maintain your health.
How do I get an NHS Health Check?
On a regular basis, our admin team will send out NHS Health Check invites, either via Text message or a letter. You will be given a blood form and be advised to visit a local blood clinic to get these done. If you feel you are eligible and would like one, lease contact our reception team for more information.
FAQs:
Why do I need this check? I feel fine!
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The NHS Health Check helps to identify potential risks early. By having this check and following the advice of your health professional, you improve your chances of living a healthier life.
But don’t these conditions run in the family?
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If you have a history of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, or kidney disease in your family then you may be more at risk. Taking action now can help you to prevent the onset of these conditions.
I know what I’m doing wrong. How can the doctor help me?
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If you would like help, we will work with you to find ways to eat healthily, reach your healthy weight, be more active, cut down your drinking, or stop smoking.
If I am assessed as being at ‘low risk’, does this mean I won’t develop these conditions?
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It is impossible to say that someone will or won’t go on to develop one of these conditions. But taking action now can help you lower your potential risk.
Will everyone have this check?
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This check is part of a national scheme to help prevent the onset of these health problems. Everyone between the ages of 40 and 74 who has not been diagnosed with the conditions mentioned will be invited for a check once every five years. If you are outside the age range and concerned about your health, you should contact your GP.