PEOPLE in Leeds are being urged to protect their health by taking advantage of free NHS checks ups.

Health checks are available to anyone aged between 40 to 47 without a pre-existing cardiovascular condition. In Leeds more than 200,000 people meet the criteria - and the city council is urging them to make use of the scheme.

The council says more than 54 per cent of people have attended their NHS health check already, between 2011 and 2016 - and that 114,000 people have been given a diagnosis or found to be at high risk of cardiovascular disease. They will now be reviewed on an annual basis and supported to make lifestyle changes to help reduce their risk factors.

The NHS Health Check can help lower the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, type 2 diabetes and some types of dementia.

Dr Ian Cameron, Leeds City Council director of public health, said: “It is fantastic to see that so many people are taking action to reduce their risk of developing some serious conditions.

“The success of the programme in Leeds is testament to the commitment of local authorities and the NHS; working together to ensure the check is easily accessible for those that need it most.”

The NHS Health Check invites adults in England, aged 40 to 74, for a free health assessment once every five years which aims to identify those at risk of serious, but potentially avoidable conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Councillor Rebecca Charlwood, Leeds City Council executive member for health, wellbeing and adults, said: “The NHS Health Check provides a real opportunity for people to take control of their own health and it is encouraging to see so many people in Leeds actively engaging in this. We would always encourage anyone that is entitled to their free check to contact their GP and take up this opportunity.

“Through partnerships with GPs, pharmacies and community groups we can reach the people that would benefit most from the check. We need to ensure that everyone has access to the information and local services that will support them in making changes that will reduce their risk so that with early intervention, it will go some way to working towards preventing some of these diseases and illnesses from occurring.”

Visit www.nhs.uk/nhshealthcheckLeeds for more information.