Janine GriffithsPeople aged over 40 in East Leeds are being encouraged to take up a free NHS Health Check to help identify possible risks to their health.
The checks are available for people aged between 40 and 74 who do not already have a diagnosed cardiovascular condition.
They aim to identify early warning signs of conditions including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease and some types of dementia.
The appointments usually take around 20 to 30 minutes and include checks such as blood pressure, cholesterol, height, weight and general health questions.
Across Leeds, almost 20,000 NHS Health Checks were completed last year. The checks helped identify people at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, as well as previously undiagnosed cases of high blood pressure, diabetes and kidney disease.
Health leaders say there is still capacity for more eligible residents to access the service.
Victoria Eaton, Leeds City Council’s director of public health, said: “Many people are unaware that the NHS Health Check is free and available to them so we hope to spread the word and encourage everyone eligible to take up the chance to have this potentially life-saving appointment.”
A new awareness campaign is now running across Leeds to encourage more people to attend. It includes posters, digital screens, flyers and social media messages highlighting the importance of the checks.
Councillor Emma Flint, Leeds City Council’s executive member for equality, adults and health, said: “Even if you feel healthy and well in yourself, it’s incredibly important that you still go and get checked.”
She added: “By identifying any issues early, you can take action to improve your health and reduce the risk of going on to develop serious health problems in the future.”
The checks are delivered through GP practices across Leeds and are funded by Leeds City Council’s public health department.
Residents aged between 40 and 74 who have not had an NHS Health Check are being advised to contact their GP surgery to find out if they are eligible.
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