Stephanie – tap dancing to health
WARRINGTON people aged 40 to 74 are being encouraged to take advantage of free NHS health checks as part of a national scheme.
The borough council is working in partnership with GPs to reach those people who would really benefit from a health check.
It also wants to ensure that everyone has access to vital information about local services that will not only support them in making changes, improve their wellbeing and reduce their risk of developing a serious illness.
Everyone is at risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes or kidney disease. The good news is that these conditions can often be prevented – even if there is a history of them in your family.
Even if you are feeling well, it’s worth having the check-up. Health professionals will work with you to lower your chances of developing these health problems in the future.
Stephanie Dupois, 41, attended her health check on the Health Bus at Stockton Heath Medical Centre after being contacted by letter to make an appointment.
She said: “It took 30 minutes and was easy and simple. I am glad to say the results were good and I was just advised to take more exercise so I have since taken up tap dancing classes.
“I would say definitely go for your check up, it is worth it, it is a wake-up call to start looking after yourself.”
Director of Public Health Dr Muna Abdel Aziz, said: “For many people this free health check is the first time they realise their personal risk of developing these serious conditions and they also find out where to get advice and support to reduce the risks.”
The Health check will take about 20-30 minutes and people will be asked some simple questions about family history and lifestyle choices.
For further information on the free health check go to www.nhs.uk/nhshealthcheck
