More than 60 per cent of people in Bury over the age of 40 have had a health check in the past year — and health bosses are encouraging more people to take up the offer.

The checks are aimed at people aged between 40-74, and are designed to identify people at risk of developing problems.

People in that age category who have not been diagnosed with vascular disease or treated for certain risk factors, are offered the check every five years.

However anyone who has concerns about their health is urged not to wait for their health check, and to visit their doctor as normal.

The check is designed to identify people at risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke or kidney disease, and offer advice and support to minimise the risk of future problems.

It takes around 20-30 minutes, and involves being asked questions such as family history and whether people smoke or not, and a blood pressure test and a body mass index calculation.

Jane Ellison, Public Health Minister, said: “I want to urge everyone over 40 to have an NHS Health Check.

“This free test can pick up on the early signs of heart problems, diabetes, stroke and kidney disease and help people take steps to make sure their lives are longer and healthier.”

Since April last year, the programme has included two additional elements, an alcohol risk assessment, and dementia related checks for those aged 65-74.

For more details about the checks visit healthcheck.nhs.uk