Public encouraged to take steps to improve their health with NHS health check

Leeds City Council is encouraging people across Leeds, who are eligible, to take up the opportunity to receive their free NHS health check. In Leeds, there are over 200,000 people aged between 40 -74 without a pre-existing cardiovascular condition who are eligible to receive one. While uptake of the NHS health checks is rising, it would be encouraging to see more people contact their GP to engage in this opportunity.

Over 54% of people have attended their NHS Health Check already, between 2011 and 2016. As a result of these checks, over 114,000 people have been given a diagnosis or found to be at high risk of cardiovascular disease. They will now be reviewed on an annual basis and supported to make lifestyle changes to help reduce their risk factors.

The NHS Health Check is an important step for many people towards improving their health and becoming more aware of what they can do to lead a healthier life. The NHS Health Check can help lower people’s risk of developing heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, type 2 diabetes and some types of dementia.

Dr Ian Cameron, Leeds City Council director of public health, said:

“It is fantastic to see that so many people are taking action to reduce their risk of developing some serious conditions.

“The success of the programme in Leeds is testament to the commitment of local authorities and the NHS; working together to ensure the check is easily accessible for those that need it most.”

The NHS Health Check invites adults in England, aged 40 to 74, for a free health assessment once every five years which aims to identify those at risk of serious, but potentially avoidable conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Councillor Rebecca Charlwood, Leeds City Council executive member for health, wellbeing and adults, commented:

“The NHS Health Check provides a real opportunity for people to take control of their own health and it is encouraging to see so many people in Leeds actively engaging in this. We would always encourage anyone that is entitled to their free check to contact their GP and take up this opportunity.

“Through partnerships with GPs, pharmacies and community groups we can reach the people that would benefit most from the check. We need to ensure that everyone has access to the information and local services that will support them in making changes that will reduce their risk so that with early intervention, it will go some way to working towards preventing some of these diseases and illnesses from occurring.”

The NHS Health Check interactive website provides information about what happens at the NHS Health Check, when and how to get one, and how to lower your risk.

For further information visit www.nhs.uk/nhshealthcheckLeeds