Time to get serious about men’s NHS Health Checks
- Healthwatch Southend
- Sep 25
- 2 min read
New research from Healthwatch England shows that too many men are missing out on the NHS Health Check, which is essential in preventing illness and saving lives.
The Government’s consultation on the forthcoming Men’s Health Strategy names cardiovascular disease (CVD) a “big killer” and a priority for improvement. CVD is the leading cause of death among men in England, and men are more likely than women to die prematurely from it.
One of the key tools the Government has chosen to prevent, detect, and manage CVD is the NHS Health Check. However, new research shows that too many men are missing out on their check. We’re calling for change and believe the new Men’s Health Strategy is a good opportunity to act.
The toll of cardiovascular disease on men
CVD covers a range of heart and circulation problems, from inherited conditions to those that develop later in life, such as coronary heart disease - often from unhealthy behaviours, including smoking, drinking and obesity. In 2023, 38,000 people in England died from CVD under the age of 75, and 26,000 (68%) of those people were were men.
Inequalities in uptake
Geography and deprivation make a big difference and there are some groups of men who are less likely to say they would attend in future, including:
Men struggling financially (63%)
LGBTQI+ men (62%)
Younger men aged 18–24 (59%)
How the NHS Health Check works
NHS Health Check should be offered every five years to adults aged 40–74 without a pre-existing long-term condition. The check is usually carried out by a nurse at a GP surgery and includes checks on blood pressure, weight, cholesterol, and sometimes blood sugar. The results are used to calculate your risk of developing CVD, and you may be given lifestyle advice, referred to your GP, or offered treatment.
If you think you are eligible but have not been invited, contact your GP surgery to find out if they offer NHS Health Checks or contact your local council to find out where you can get an NHS Health Check in your area.
More information is available at NHS Health Check - NHS
Need some local support? Check out these groups based in Southend:
O5BM (Over 50's Black Men's forum): 'At O5BM, we envision a future where every black man over the age of 50 enjoys optimal physical health, mental resilience, and a strong sense of community.
Andy Mans Club: 'Our mission, put simply, is to prevent other families from going through the heartache and grief caused by suicide, by encouraging men to speak openly about their issues.
Your experience matters
Have your say about NHS health checks, contact us with feedback or if you need advice we are here to help.