People in Scotland who have recently or are about to turn 40 will be encouraged to take a health check as part of a new service from NHS 24.
The ‘Life Begins at 40’ scheme will allow participants to assess their own health online or over the phone, before being given more detailed health advice to suit their needs. The service is part of a £15m package to encourage people aged 40 and over to check their health.
Public health minister Shona Robison said: “Life Begins at 40 will see 74,000 Scots invited to self-assess their lifestyles and think about their health this year.
“Prevention is better than cure and we are dedicated to doing all that we can to identify those at risk from as early as possible.”
Meanwhile, a four-year pilot project which examines the possibility of introducing universal face-to-face ‘heart MOTs’ to over 40s will also start this year.
NHS 24 medical director Dr George Crooks said: “Turning 40 is a significant milestone and it can traditionally be a time for making new lifestyle choices.
“Many people may be reflecting on their past and considering what’s ahead of them. It is an ideal, positive time for people to start thinking more about a healthy future.”
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