Screening
NHS Health Check
The NHS Health Check is a midlife check-up for adults that assesses the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease.
Quick answer
NHS Health Check: what it is and what the results mean
The NHS Health Check is a preventive assessment offered to adults in a certain age range without existing cardiovascular conditions. It reviews lifestyle, measurements and blood tests to estimate the risk of future health problems.
- Why it is done: It is done to spot early signs of, or risk factors for, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and sometimes dementia, so that advice and treatment can reduce that risk before problems develop.
- Understanding results: Your results are combined into an estimate of your risk over the coming years.
What it is
The NHS Health Check is a preventive assessment offered to adults in a certain age range without existing cardiovascular conditions. It reviews lifestyle, measurements and blood tests to estimate the risk of future health problems.
Why it is done
It is done to spot early signs of, or risk factors for, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and sometimes dementia, so that advice and treatment can reduce that risk before problems develop.
What to expect
It includes questions about lifestyle and family history, measurement of blood pressure, height, weight and waist, and a blood test for cholesterol and sometimes blood sugar. It usually takes 20–30 minutes.
Understanding the results
Your results are combined into an estimate of your risk over the coming years. You are given personalised advice, and if needed, treatment or further tests to lower your risk, such as for blood pressure or cholesterol.
Good to know
Risks and limitations
It is a safe, simple assessment. It estimates risk rather than diagnosing disease, and its value depends on acting on the advice given, such as lifestyle changes or treatment.
Education and reference only. This explains the test in general terms and is not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions from the team arranging your test, and discuss your results with your clinician.
Answers
NHS Health Check: frequently asked questions
Who is offered an NHS Health Check?
It is offered to adults in a defined middle-age range who do not already have certain heart, circulation or kidney conditions or diabetes, typically every few years.
What happens after the check?
You receive a personalised risk estimate and advice. Depending on the results, this might mean lifestyle support, monitoring, or treatment such as for high blood pressure or cholesterol.
Related tests
Other screening investigations
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Screening and pregnancy
- NICE — antenatal and screening guidance
- UK National Screening Committee
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