The figures show that over 6,000 people in Richmond had their NHS Health Check, in the last year, while over 11,000 Richmond Residents were invited to have an NHS Health check.  More than 50% took up the offer of an NHS Health Check in the last year

Over 65,000 adults are estimated to be obese or overweight and over 39,000 are estimated having a high blood pressure in Richmond, the benefits of having an NHS Health Check, leading to healthy lifestyle changes, are huge.

The NHS Health Check, available for 40 -74 year olds, is an important step for many people towards improving their health and wellbeing. Through relatively simple lifestyle changes, like healthy eating and being more physically active, people can lower their risk of developing serious, but preventable conditions such as; heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers and dementia.

Cllr Lisa Blakemore, Richmond Council Cabinet Member for Public Health, said:

“This programme provides a real opportunity for people to take control of their own health and it is encouraging to see so many people in Richmond upon Thames actively engaging in this.

“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.”

Dr Yvonne Doyle, regional director of PHE London, said:

“The NHS Health Check programme has already helped many Londoners to take action and reduce their risk of developing some serious conditions, such as diabetes, where we are facing a potential epidemic. It is great that 6,000 people in Richmond have taken up their free check.

“This programme is also an opportunity to address the high levels of undiagnosed and undertreated conditions such as high blood pressure, before serious health problems develop. We need to continue to encourage everyone who is eligible to take up this important offer.”

For more information about Health Checks, go to: www.richmond.gov.uk/nhs_health_checks