Thousands of Thurrock residents aged 40–74 are being invited to take up a free NHS Health Check – a quick and simple midlife check designed to help people stay healthy for longer.
NHS Health Checks are available to people aged 40–74 who do not already have a diagnosed cardiovascular condition. The programme is being rolled out across Thurrock over five years to make sure every eligible resident has the opportunity to take part.
Invitations are sent automatically by letter, text or email, so residents do not need to apply. Once invited, they can simply book an appointment at a convenient time.
Each Health Check takes around 20–30 minutes and includes:
- a blood pressure check
- a simple blood test for cholesterol (and sometimes blood sugar)
- height and weight measurements
- a conversation about lifestyle and family history.
The checks help identify early signs of serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and dementia risk – often before symptoms appear.
Councillor Mark Hooper, Cabinet Member for Health and Well-being, said:
“An NHS Health Check is a quick and free way to understand your health risks and get advice that’s tailored to you. By attending when invited, residents can take a positive step towards protecting their health and helping us reduce preventable illness in Thurrock.”
Dr Chris Olukanni, a local GP and Clinical Director for Tilbury Chadwell PCN in Thurrock, added:
“We often see the impact of conditions like heart disease, stroke and diabetes when they’re picked up too late. NHS Health Checks give us the opportunity to spot risks earlier and support people to make changes that protect their long-term health.”
The programme aims to reach everyone who is eligible, with particular focus on people who are less likely to attend health checks, including men aged 40–59, people who rarely see their GP, residents in more disadvantaged areas and those with lifestyle risk factors such as smoking, poor diet or low activity.
Residents are encouraged not to ignore their invitation when it arrives. The appointment is quick, free and could make an important difference to their future health.
Appointments usually take place at local delivery hubs or GP surgeries.
For more information, visit the Thurrock Council health checks and screening webpage.