Sound body, sound mind
NHS screening programmes can help identify problems at an early stage, enabling treatment to prevent them from developing into more serious conditions.
There are a range of free or subsidised screening services available on the NHS via your GP, local pharmacy and other organisations for conditions including cancer, diabetes, kidney problems and circulatory conditions, as well as issues concerning your teeth, hearing and eyesight.
Free NHS health checks for those aged 40-74 are available for heart disease, cholesterol, high blood pressure, kidney disease and diabetes. You may be called up for screening, but if not, you can ask your GP or contact your local pharmacy to find out if they offer the free service and make an appointment.
Health checks are also available for people under 40 years for a small fee at pharmacists. If you have any concerns or family members with any of these conditions, you can request a check-up at your GP. Free blood pressure checks are also available through Blood Pressure UK.
Cancer
One in three people will have some form of cancer in their lifetime, and the risk of developing cancer increases as we get older. Although cancer treatments are improving and many people are successfully cured, early diagnosis is still important. Regular health screening helps, but if you have concerns, don’t wait for screening, seek advice from your GP immediately.
It's important to be aware of any unexplained changes to your body, such as the sudden appearance of a lump, blood in your urine, or a change to your usual bowel habits. These symptoms are often caused by other non-cancerous illnesses, but it's important to see your GP so they can investigate and, if required, refer you to a specialist.
Cancer screening is provided nationally for certain conditions where tests can accurately detect the disease at an early stage:
- Breast cancer screening is offered every three years for women aged 50-70
- Cervical cancer screening is offered every three years to women aged 25-49, and then every five years to women aged 65+
- Bowel cancer screening is offered every two years to men and women aged 60-74. An additional one-off test known as ‘bowel scope screening’ is being introduced for men and women aged 55.
Leading a healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk of cancer. But the risks are increased if you smoke, are obese, drink excessive alcohol, or eat a lot of cured or processed meat or charred food.
The following links contain useful information about cancer:
Further support
Find NHS approved digital tools to help you manage and improve your health, including the Health Help Now app for smartphones.
The Feeling First Classportal (code FFC1 to register) has helpful support content for your mental and physical health. Visit www.feelingfirstclass.co.uk or download the app from iTunes or the Google Play store.
The First Class Support helpline is completely confidential, independent and available 24/7. Call now on 0800 688 8777 if you would like to talk to someone about any physical or mental health-related matters, for lifestyle advice, or for direct access to counselling treatments.
