How healthy is your heart? An NHS Health Check can help you understand your risk of cardiovascular disease. ❤️

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) includes conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, such as heart disease and stroke. Your risk can be influenced by several factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, age and family history. Some factors cannot be changed, but there are important steps you can take to reduce your overall risk.

An NHS Health Check is a free check of your cardiovascular health. It usually includes checking your blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as discussing your family history, physical activity, smoking, alcohol use and other factors that may affect your health. 🩺

High blood pressure and high cholesterol often have no symptoms, so having them checked can help identify potential problems before you know anything is wrong.

NHS Health Checks are generally offered every five years to eligible people aged 40 to 74 who do not already have certain pre-existing conditions. If you're eligible but haven't been invited, you can contact your GP practice. 💙

NHS Health Check information:
https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/nhs-health-check/

Breast screening can help find breast cancer before you notice any signs or symptoms. 🎀

NHS breast screening uses X-rays called mammograms to look for breast cancers that may be too small to see or feel. Finding breast cancer earlier can mean treatment is more likely to be successful.

If you're eligible for NHS breast screening, you'll be invited when it's time for your appointment. When you receive your invitation, please take the time to read the information provided and arrange your screening.

Screening is for people without symptoms. If you notice a new lump, changes to the size or shape of your breast, nipple or skin changes, or anything else that is unusual for you, do not wait for your next screening invitation – contact your GP. 💗

NHS breast screening information:
https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/breast-screening-mammogram/

National Health Education Week is a reminder that good health information should be useful and accessible to everyone. 💙

For people with a physical disability or limited mobility, staying active can sometimes require a different approach, but there are many ways to adapt exercise around your individual abilities and needs.

Physical activity can support heart health, strength, joints, maintaining a healthy weight and mental wellbeing. Everyday movements can also form part of staying active, and exercises can often be adapted so they can be completed seated or with mobility aids.

Start with manageable activities, listen to your body and gradually build up what you do. There is no single exercise plan that will suit everyone, so consider speaking to a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise routine if you're unsure what is appropriate for you. 🩺

Focus on what you can do and find activities that work for your body. Every bit of movement counts. 💙

Patient.info guide to exercising with a physical disability:
https://patient.info/features/healthy-living/how-stay-fit-if-you-have-a-physical-disability

Your teen can experience cutting-edge therapy from home.

A research study is now enrolling teens aged 16-17 experiencing anxiety or depression, comparing CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) with an artificial intelligence-powered therapy program with clinical support, delivered remotely from home.

Compensation available for eligible participants. Learn more about study requirements. Is your teen 16 or 17 and experiencing anxiety or depression?

They may be eligible for an at-home research study. Learn more about eligibility criteria. Go to: https://ow.ly/fn3a50ZYSXp