Don't leave it too late to book your free NHS health check

If you're aged 40-74 getting a free NHS Health Check every five years could be the answer to a longer healthier life.

Residents in Norfolk are being encouraged to take up the offer of a free NHS Health Check so they can be assessed for their risk of developing certain health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 Diabetes and dementia. NHS Health Checks are free to anyone over the age of 40 who have not had one in the last five years or who currently do not already have a related long-term health condition.

Cllr Bill Borrett, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing said, "If people step forward and get a free NHS Health Check we can help prevent nearly 500 individuals in Norfolk each year from developing serious health conditions which could severely impact their quality of life. This is an important opportunity for people to take more proactive control of their own health".

39,000 NHS Health Checks have been delivered across Norfolk over the last 12 months and many people's cardiovascular health will have been improved as a result - but there are still many people that haven't taken up the offer of having a check. Norfolk County Council's Public Health team is encouraging as many eligible people aged between 40 and 74 as possible to take action now and book their NHS Health Check in a new campaign.

Dr Simon Carroll, a GP from Elmham Surgery and Clinical Director for Mid Norfolk Primary Care Network says, "Many conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease or stroke can be avoided with simple lifestyle changes. If you've already received an invitation to book your NHS Health Check or haven't had one in the past 5 years, I would encourage you to book it today. I am a man in my early 60s as well as being a GP and fully support these opportunities to look after our health. The check only takes 20-30 minutes, and you will receive personalised information to help reduce your risk and improve your overall health".

NHS Health Checks can be booked at the following locations:

• GP surgeries
• Some pharmacies
• Community venues such as libraries and some places of work via our partner REED Wellbeing

To find out if you're eligible and to book yours visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/nhscheck.