Hundreds of patients across the Bradford district are being invited for a free NHS Health Check at their GP practice.

NHS Health Checks are part of a new national scheme to help prevent the onset of health problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes or kidney disease.

The checks are being offered to people aged between 40 and 74 once every five years on a rolling programme which is starting by targeting up to 1,400 people who are at greater risk of developing certain conditions.

People who are identified by their practice as being at greater risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease are the first group to be invited for a Health Check.

They are being sent an invitation to make an appointment with the healthcare assistant or practice nurse at their local surgery. An information leaflet about Health Checks is also included.

As the programme develops everyone between 40 and 74 – apart from people already receiving treatment for one of these long-term conditions – will be invited for a Health Check.

The check is to assess people’s risk of developing heart disease, stroke, kidney disease or diabetes. If there are any warning signs, then something can be done.

Dr Chris Harris, long-term conditions clinical lead at NHS Bradford and Airedale, said: “By taking early action, people can improve their health and prevent the onset of these conditions.

“There is good evidence for this and a Health Check can really help identify any potential problems.”

The check should take 20 to 30 minutes and is based on questions and measurements such as age, sex, family history, height, weight and blood pressure. There will also be a blood test. Patients will receive free personalised advice.