In today’s busy world, it’s easy to put our health on the back burner. Many of us only seek medical advice when something feels wrong. But what if we could prevent issues before they arise? NHS Health Checks are a proactive way to stay on top of your health, catching potential problems early and giving you the tools to make informed decisions about your wellbeing.
The NHS Health Check programme in England specifically targets people aged 40-74, so you may have heard about it. But why this age group? And why are some people excluded, including those over 74 or those already living with certain health conditions? Let’s explore why health checks are so important and the reasoning behind the eligibility criteria.
Why are health checks so important?
Health checks can spot potential health issues early, often before symptoms appear. Here’s why they’re essential:
1. Preventing serious health Issues – Conditions like heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and kidney disease often develop silently, with no obvious signs or symptoms until they become serious. Health checks can identify warning signs early, giving you the chance to make lifestyle changes or receive treatment to prevent these conditions from worsening.
2. Helping you take control of your health – A health check provides a snapshot of your overall health, including key metrics such as cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and weight. With this information, you can take control of your health and make positive changes that could lower your risk of developing long-term conditions.
3. Reducing healthcare costs – By preventing health problems or catching them early, health checks can reduce the need for more intensive medical treatments in the future. This benefits not only individuals but also the NHS, helping to keep healthcare resources focused where they are most needed.
4. Improving longevity and quality of life – Health checks give you the tools and knowledge to live a longer, healthier life. Preventing or managing chronic illnesses can significantly improve your quality of life as you age, helping you stay active and independent for longer.
Why are health checks only for ages 40-74?
Here’s why the programme targets this specific group and excludes others:
The onset of risk factors
Lifestyle choices and age-related changes often influence chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. From the age of 40, the likelihood of developing these conditions begins to increase. Health checks catch these risks early, at a stage when interventions can be most effective.
Why not include those over 74?
If you are over 74, you won’t be eligible for the NHS Health Check programme because you are likely to already be under the care of a healthcare professional for existing conditions or concerns. Regular monitoring and personalised care plans are usually in place for older individuals, making a standardised health check less necessary.
Additionally, the tools used to assess risk in the NHS Health Check, such as the QRISK tool for cardiovascular risk, are not as accurate for people aged 75 and over. Instead, healthcare professionals focus on tailored assessments and treatments that are better suited to the needs of older adults.
Why are some people with pre-existing conditions excluded?
The NHS Health Check is a prevention programme that identifies risks in people who have not yet been diagnosed with certain conditions. If you already have conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure, you won’t be able to get a health check because your GP or specialist is likely already providing you with regular monitoring and treatment.
For these individuals, healthcare providers use more specific assessments and management plans tailored to their condition, rather than a general health check. This ensures that resources are focused on those who may benefit most from early intervention.
What happens during a health check?
If you’re eligible for an NHS Health Check, you’ll be invited to attend one every five years. The process is simple and usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Here’s what it involves:
- Discussion of your health and lifestyle: The health professional will ask about your medical history, diet, exercise habits, and more.
- Measurements: They will also record your height, weight, and blood pressure.
- Blood tests: A small sample of blood will be taken to check cholesterol levels and, in some cases, blood sugar levels.
- Risk assessment: Your healthcare provider will assess your risk of developing conditions like heart disease or diabetes.
- Personalised advice: Based on your results, you’ll receive tailored guidance on how to improve or maintain your health.
If any concerns are identified, you may be referred for further tests or support, such as a stop smoking programme or weight management programmes.
The Bottom Line
Health checks are a vital tool in maintaining good health and preventing chronic illnesses. For those aged 40-74, they provide an invaluable opportunity to take stock of your health and make positive changes for the future. By catching potential issues early, health checks can help you live a longer and healthier life.
Book your NHS Health Check with us today: https://bhb.maximusuk.co.uk/health-checks/
