NHS health MOTs: What are they and how can you get one?

The NHS health MOT is free for people over 40-years-old. [Photo: Getty]
The NHS health MOT is free for people over 40-years-old. [Photo: Getty]

A new study has found that the NHS health MOTs, available for free for people over 40, cut the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

People who attend the health checks are more likely to lose weight, lower blood pressure and give up smoking.

Under half of UK over 40s are taking advantage of the free health check, though.

The research suggests that if more people were to attend their check, rates of people having strokes and heart attacks would go down in the UK.

READ MORE: Skipping breakfast could lead to increased risk of heart attack

The 20-30 minute appointment can pick up early signs of strokes, kidney and heart disease, type 2 diabetes and dementia.

During the check, you will be told how to reduce your risk of these conditions.

Over 65s will also be told about the signs and symptoms of dementia.

The healthcare professional will start by asking questions about your lifestyle and family history as well as measuring your height and weight.

READ MORE: Here’s how to spot the signs of dementia

Your blood pressure will be taken followed by a blood test using a finger prick test.

They will then collate this information and tell you how likely it is you’ll get a range of health ailments. Each check comes with personalised advice on what is recommended for your body.

The NHS recommend having a health check every five years when you’re 40 and over and yet only half of over 40s take advantage of it.

Cardiovascular diseases are responsible for 150,000 deaths annually in the UK. The research suggests that if the uptake on the health checks was higher, this number may decrease.

The latest findings suggest that 15 million people are eligible for the test, but only 7.15 million people have taken it since 2013.

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