Working together to improve your health

Everyone is at risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease, and some forms of dementia. The good news is that these conditions can often be prevented – even if you have a history of them in your family. Have your free NHS Health Check and you will be better prepared for the future and be able to take steps to maintain or improve your health.

Why do I need an NHS Health Check?

We know that your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, and dementia increases with age. There are also certain things that will put you at even greater risk.

These are:

• being overweight

• being physically inactive

• not eating healthily

• smoking

• drinking too much alcohol • high blood pressure

• high cholesterol.

Both men and women can develop these conditions, and having one could increase your risk of developing another in the future.

In the brain a blocked artery or a bleed can cause a stroke.

In the heart a blocked artery can cause a heart attack or angina.

The kidneys can be damaged by high blood pressure or diabetes, causing chronic kidney disease and increasing your risk of having a heart attack.

Being overweight and physically inactive can lead to type 2 diabetes.

If unrecognised or unmanaged, type 2 diabetes could increase your risk of further health problems, including heart disease, kidney disease and stroke.

Even if you’re feeling well, it’s worth having your NHS Health Check now. We can then work with you to lower your chances of developing these health problems in the future.

What happens at the check?

This check is to assess your risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, and stroke.

• The check will take about 20–30 minutes.

• You’ll be asked some simple questions. For example, about your family history and choices which may put your health at risk

• We’ll record your height, weight, age, sex, and ethnicity.

• We’ll take your blood pressure.

• We’ll do a simple blood test to check your cholesterol level.

What happens after the check?

We will discuss how you can reduce your risk and stay healthy.

• 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.

• You’ll be given personalised advice on how to lower your risk and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

• Some people with raised blood pressure will have their kidneys checked through a blood test.

• Some people may need to have another blood test to check for type 2 diabetes. Your health professional will be able to tell you more.

• Treatment or medication may be prescribed to help you maintain your health.

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.

Check your eligibility: all answers must match!

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Question	Eligible Answer
Are you aged between 40 and 74 years?	Yes
Have you had an NHS Health Check in the last 5 years?	No
Do you live or work in Kent?	Yes
Are already receiving medical care or taking medication for any of the following:
Hypertension or high blood pressure	No
High blood cholesterol	No
Chronic Kidney Disease	No
Heart Disease	No
Diabetes	No
Have you ever had or do you take medication for:
Atrial Fibrillation (AF – heart condition)	No
Heart Failure	No
Familial Hypercholesterolaemia – Family History of High Cholesterol	No
Peripheral Arterial disease (PAD) – disease of the arteries and veins	No
A Heart Attack	No
A TIA or Mini Stroke	No
A Stroke	No
Are you on the palliative care register?	No

Pop in-store to get tested today. It's FREE take advantage! Come and see dearPHARMACIST at

Regent Pharmacy, 19 Windmill Street, Gravesend, Kent DA12 1AS. Tel: 01474 534771