Men encouraged to get their free NHS health check

Men over 40 are being encouraged to get their free NHS health check this International Men's Day.

The free Oxfordshire County Council funded health check can lower a person's risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and (certain types of) dementia.

Since 2019, 67,328 Oxfordshire residents have taken up an invitation to have an NHS health check.

Councillor Nathan Ley, Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health, Inequalities and Community Safety, said: "NHS health checks help people to get an overview of their general health and are a fast, effective method of finding out if there are some simple things they could be doing to improve their long-term health and wellbeing.

"We know that men are more likely to put off seeing a doctor, and this can have a real impact on our health. That's why, this International Men's Day, we're making an extra special effort to encourage men to get booked in for an NHS health check. It's quick and easy, and a great way to detect potential issues and get help with them before they become serious."

NHS health checks are funded by the county council's public health team, which exists to improve the health of local people and protect them from preventable health issues - helping local residents live safe and healthy lives and play an active role in their communities.

Everyone eligible, aged 40 to 74 in England, will be invited for a free NHS health check once every five years (apart from those already seeing their GP for certain conditions).

A health check will take around 30 minutes:

• You will be asked some simple questions about your family history, whether or not you smoke and how much alcohol you drink.
• Your height, weight, sex, ethnicity and age will be recorded.
• Your blood pressure and pulse will be taken.
• A simple blood test will check your cholesterol level.
• Your body mass index (BMI) will be calculated. BMI is a measure of whether you're a healthy weight for your height.
• Your level of risk of developing certain conditions (i.e. stroke, kidney and heart disease, type 2 diabetes and types of dementia) will be calculated.
• You will be given personalised lifestyle advice to help you live a longer, healthier life.

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