Your NHS health check could be the most important 30 minutes you spend on your health.
If you live in Portsmouth and are aged between 40 and 74, you may be offered a free NHS health check every five years.
Why have an NHS health check
As we get older, we’re more likely to get health problems like:
- heart disease
- stroke
- type 2 diabetes
- kidney disease
Even if you feel fine, it’s still worth having a check. It’s a bit like an MOT for your body. It can spot early signs of problems and help you stay healthy.
Who can get one
You can have an NHS Health Check if:
- you’re aged 40 to 74
- you’re not already being treated for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes or kidney disease
- you’re not taking certain medicines, like those for high cholesterol or blood pressure
If you’re outside this age range but worried about your health, speak to your GP.
To learn more, visit the NHS health check website.
What happens during the check
The check takes about 30 minutes. We will:
- ask you some simple questions, like about your family’s health
- check your height, weight, age, sex and ethnicity
- take your blood pressure
- do a blood test to check your cholesterol
- give advice on how to stay healthy and what support is available
What happens after the check
After the health check, we’ll explain your results and what they mean. We’ll also talk about how to lower your health risks.
You might be offered help from other health services. You may need more tests, treatment or medication.
How to get your NHS health check
You’ll get a letter in the post inviting you to book an appointment at your GP surgery or with a local community provider.
Keep the letter safe, you’ll need to bring it to your appointment. You must have received an invitation to be able to get your NHS health check.