Prevention and detection of preventable lifestyle related  disease is a key NHS priority.

As part of this strategy, eligible patients (age between 40 and 75) are invited to have blood tests to check cholesterol levels, check for diabetes, liver and kidney function tests and have height, weight and blood pressure measured.

The tests are carried out in the surgery by the practice nurse or health care assistant.

Based on the results of your tests and measurements, your risk of developing heart disease or a stroke can be estimated and appropriate advice on healthy lifestyle including diet, exercise, smoking and alcohol consumption can be given and  appropriate treatment started if required.

Depending on your estimated level of risk, you will be invited for future reviews to check your progress. If you are in a high risk category, you will be invited for annual reviews and if deemed low risk, five yearly reviews.