More people than ever before are receiving heart check ups, according to new figures.
Statistics released by ISD Scotland today show that 2,338 people underwent Keep Well check ups in 2011/12 in the Forth Valley area.
A Keep Well health check is free, typically takes 30-40 minutes, and is offered to 40 to 64 year olds at participating GP practices in the most deprived communities across Scotland.
The health checks focus primarily on cardio-vascular disease (CVD) and its main risk factors, especially blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking and diabetes, but have also taken a whole person approach to patients, recognising their wider needs.
Those found to be at risk are referred onto further services/brief interventions including smoking cessation, alcohol interventions and diet/weight management or are prescribed appropriate medications.
Falkirk West MSP and Public Health Minister Michael Matheson said:
“It is fantastic that in the last year NHS Forth Valley has delivered 2,338 check-ups to the people across our area who need it most.
“Between March 2009 and the end of June 2012, over 180,000 Keep Well health checks have been delivered across Scotland in our most deprived communities across Scotland.
“Preventing heart disease not only saves lives, it helps to reduce the number of people being admitted to hospital or undergoing costly treatment.
“By intervening early to offer heath advice and support where required, we can really improve people’s lives.”
