Residents urged to take free health checks

WARRINGTON Borough Council is encouraging residents to take advantage of a free NHS health check as part of a national scheme.
Anyone aged between 40-74 years can have the free check which can help identify people who are at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and certain types of dementia, and help lower the risk.
People who are eligible will receive an invitation to attend an appointment at their GP Practice every five years. Patients with a pre-existing health condition will not be invited but should be having regular medical reviews with their GP.
Warrington residents who are eligible will be able to receive their free NHS check over four Saturdays, starting from Saturday January 25 in Warrington Town Centre.
The council has arranged for a health improvement bus to be situated in the Old Market Place for health workers to carry out NHS Health checks between 10am – 4pm on January 26. February 2, February 9 and February 16.
Anyone not eligible for the full NHS Health Check, can still drop in, as they will be able to receive tips on how to improve their health and wellbeing through simple lifestyle changes.
The check will take approximately 20-30 minutes to complete.
Cllr Maureen McLaughlin , the council’s lead member for public health and wellbeing, said: “The NHS Health Check provides a real opportunity for people to take control of their own health and improve their lifestyle. Even if you are feeling well, it’s worth having the check-up as health professionals will work with you to lower your chances of developing serious health problems in the future.”
Anyone outside the stated age range but concerned about their health should contact their GP. More information can be found at healthcheck.nhs.uk