Health Screenings

• Purpose: Check if your blood pressure is too high. High blood pressure can cause heart attacks or strokes.
• Who: Adults
• How often: Every 1–5 years
• This is checked at your GP practice
• Find more information about blood pressure checks on the NHS website.

• Purpose: Measures fat in your blood. High cholesterol can cause heart and blood vessel problems.
• Who: Adults
• How often: Every 4–6 years, or more often if at risk
• This is checked at your GP practice
• Find more information about cholesterol checks on the NHS website.

• ‍Purpose: Checks for breast cancer in women. Finds cancer early when it is easier to treat.‍
• Who: Women aged 50–71‍
• How often: Every 3 years
• This screening is done at a local hospital
• Find more information about breast screenings on the NHS website.

• Purpose: Checks the cervix for changes that could lead to cancer. Helps prevent cervical cancer.
• Who: Women aged 25–64
• How often: Every 3–5 years depending on age
• This screening is done at your GP practice
• You can bring someone with you or ask for an interpreter
• Find more information about cervical screenings on the NHS website.

• Purpose: Checks the bowel for cancer or early signs of disease. Early detection makes treatment more effective.
• Who: Adults aged 60–74
• How often: Every 2 years
• This screening is done at home with a test kit
• You get the kit by post and send it back by post
• The sample is then analysed at a hospital
• You will be contacted if you need to go for follow up tests
• Find more information about bowel screenings on the NHS website.

The NHS Health Check is a free check for people aged 40 to 74. It helps to find:

• Heart Disease
• Kidney Disease
• Stroke risk
• Type two diabetes

You will be invited for a health check every 5 years by your GP.

Your GP or clinic may invite you. You should receive a letter in the post or a text message inviting you to make an appointment.

Remember: Screenings find problems early, even before you feel unwell.