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So, you’ve hit the fabulous age of 40 or maybe you’re cruising through your 40s and heading towards the big 5-0. This is a fantastic time in your life, full of wisdom, experience, and, let’s be honest, a few more grey hairs. But don’t worry, those are just signs of all the amazing things you’ve accomplished. Now, let’s talk about something super important – your health. Specifically, why you should get a free NHS Health Check.

What is an NHS Health Check?

First things first, what exactly is an NHS Health Check? Think of it as an MOT for your body. It’s about keeping you as healthy as possible and reducing the chances of problems in the future. If you're over 40, you may be at risk of developing heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, diabetes or dementia. The 20 minute check will assess whether you are at risk of any of these and gives you the chance to make simple lifestyle changes, helping to keep your healthy and active.

Why bother?

You might be thinking, ‘I feel fine, why do I need a health check?’ Well, here’s the thing – some health problems can sneak up on you without any obvious symptoms. By the time you notice something's wrong, it might have already affected your health and life. An NHS Health Check can help identify your risk of developing health conditions now or in the future. This gives you the chance to make simple lifestyle changes or get treatment before things get serious. 

There are so many great reasons to get an NHS Health Check. It can help you keep up with the kids, stay active and healthy, and enjoy life to the fullest. Whether you love cycling, running, or just spending time with family and friends, an NHS Health Check can help you keep doing the things you love. 

What happens during the check?

No need to worry, it’s all pretty straightforward. When you go for your NHS Health Check, a healthcare assistant or nurse will:

1. Ask about your family history and lifestyle – They’ll want to know about your diet, exercise habits, and whether you smoke or drink alcohol.
2. Measure your height and weight – This helps to calculate your body mass index (BMI).
3. Take your blood pressure – High blood pressure can be a silent problem, so it’s good to keep an eye on it.
4. Do a blood test – This checks your cholesterol levels and sometimes your blood sugar levels too.

The benefits

So, what’s in it for you? Here are a few more reasons why you should think about having an NHS Health Check:

• Peace of mind: Knowing that you’re in good health can be a huge relief. If there are any issues, you’ll know about them early and can take action.
• Personalised advice: You’ll get tailored advice on how to improve your health. This could be tips on diet, exercise, or quitting smoking.
• Prevent future problems: By catching potential health issues early, you can prevent them from becoming bigger problems down the line.

Time to take the first step

Ready to take charge of your health? Great! If you’ve received an invite from your GP Practice, book your NHS Health Check now. If you haven't but would like one, check if you’re eligible or contact your GP practice to check if you qualify.

Remember, your 40s and 50s are a time to enjoy life to the fullest. By taking care of your health now, you’re setting yourself up for many more happy and healthy years ahead. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in your life.