NHS health checks for adults Identifying potential health issues early on can help to prevent them from developing into big problems.

If you're aged between 40 and 74 then you may be eligible for a free NHS health check. The NHS Health Check aims to reduce your chance of developing five different conditions:

  • type 2 diabetes
  • heart disease
  • kidney disease
  • stroke
  • dementia

It tells you your current risk factor and also helps you understand how you can lower your risk of developing one of these conditions.

What happens at the check?

The checks will be carried out by a qualified health care assistant:

  • the check will take between 15 and 20 minutes
  • you'll be asked questions, for example about your family history, whether you smoke and how much alcohol you drink
  • your height, weight and body mass index (BMI) will be recorded
  • your age, sex and ethnicity will be noted
  • your blood pressure will be taken
  • a finger prick blood test will be carried out to check your cholesterol level, or you may be asked to go for a blood test before booking your NHS health check appointment

What happens after the check?

The health care professional who carries out your health check will give you your results immediately unless your blood test has to be sent away for analysis.

They will discuss with you, if necessary, how to lower your risk and maintain a healthy lifestyle. If you need it you will also be offered help to lower your blood pressure or cholesterol.

Eligibility for an NHS health check

You're eligible for an NHS health check every five years if you're aged between 40 and 74 and not already being treated for certain long term conditions.

You will not need a check if you have had an NHS Health Check in the past five years, and if you have already been diagnosed with:

  • chronic kidney disease
  • coronary heart disease
  • diabetes
  • heart attack
  • heart condition (atrial fibrillation)
  • high blood pressure
  • high cholesterol
  • stroke or mini stroke

Find out more

Health checks are available in GPs surgeries across Derbyshire. Most people will receive an invite to attend an NHS Health Check shortly after their 40th birthday.

If you have not received an invite, or are aged over 40 and have never had a health check then you can book one by contacting your GP surgery directly.

You can find out more about the NHS health checks.