Prevention saves lives – that’s the message to people across East Berkshire, Surrey Heath, North East Hampshire and Farnham, who are being urged to take up invitations to have an NHS Health Check.
A social media campaign is taking place over the coming weeks across the Frimley Health and Care area to encourage more people to book an appointment when they have the chance.
Invitations are sent out by GP practices to people aged 40 to 74 who aren’t already being treated for a range of health conditions. The aim is to spot potential health concerns, such as heart disease or kidney disease so patients can act early to stay well and prevent further ill health.
Tessa Lindfield, Director of Public Health at Slough Borough Council, said: “NHS Health Checks are a real opportunity to look after your health now and for your future. If you receive an invitation, please take it up, it is quick and free and it could make a big difference.
“There are many serious health conditions which can be successfully treated if caught early – even before they start to show symptoms. That’s why it’s so important to take up the offer of a formal test, whether you feel fine or not.
“Your doctor or practice nurse can also give you advice about staying healthy, eating well, staying active, quitting smoking and drinking sensibly.
“The NHS Health Check lasts about 20 minutes, it’s free and it could add years to your life. Please book yours when you can.”
Invitations are sent to every five years to people between 40 and 74 who are not already on treatment. The tests check height, weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and may also examine kidney function. The healthcare professional conducting the check will also ask about health behaviours.
The results allow medical professionals to detect early signs of disease, as well as learn more about potential future risk of heart disease, heart attack, kidney disease, stroke, diabetes and even dementia.
If disease is detected, treatment can begin, long before it would have done without the health check and therefore with an increased chance of a positive outcome. All patients are offered support and advice to help them improve their long-term health.
More information is available on the national NHS Health Check page. This includes a list of health conditions which would exclude people from being invited to the NHS Health Check, on the basis that they would already be having regular check-ups as part of their treatments.
