Doctors target over 40s
If you’re 40+, you could soon get a call from your GP for a personal MOT. The idea is that everyone is seen over the next 5 years, to assess their risk of developing heart disease, stroke or diabetes.
Everyone is at risk of developing heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes or kidney disease but these diseases can often be prevented, if steps are taken early enough, according to health professionals.
The Health Check will record basic information, such as height, weight, family history and blood pressure. They will also take a simple blood test for cholesterol and, in some cases, glucose levels.
NHS Norfolk consultant in public health Lucy McLeod said: “This is an important joined-up approach which we hope will lead to improvements in people’s lives. Each patient receives personalised advice on how to reduce their risk of developing diseases…” The emphasis will be on taking small steps to a healthier lifestyle, including half an hour of moderate physical activity, 5 days a week.
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