Latest news with #NHSHealthChecks
Daily Mirror
12-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
'My dad had a stroke in his 40s and now there are six health rules I follow'
After her dad had a stroke 14 years ago, reporter Alice Sjoberg has repeatedly been told she is at a higher risk of having one too and has since implemented several lifestyle changes to prevent it Just a week before my 13th birthday, my dad suffered a stroke. Initially, the medics at A&E were sceptical as he was a fit and healthy 40-year-old with no prior health issues. A stroke seemed out of the question, they thought. But their doubts evaporated when he began to struggle with speech and couldn't walk in a straight line. He was promptly admitted for treatment and further tests. In some ways, you could say he was one of the 'fortunate' ones. After a week-long hospital stay, he was discharged and embarked on a three-month home-based rehab journey, gradually recovering. Fast forward nearly 14 years, and you'd be hard-pressed to guess what he's been through. The only tell-tale sign is the array of pills he takes daily to keep another stroke at bay. Despite strokes being fairly common, as around 100,000 people in the UK experience one each year, according to the Stroke Association, many are unaware that there can be a genetic component. Speaking to the Mirror, the CEO of the Stroke Association, Juliet Bouverie OBE, explained: "There is a common misconception that strokes only happen to older people, but they can affect anyone of any age. Around a quarter of strokes happen to people of working age, under the age of 65, which could be down to a myriad of factors." Since I was a teen, I've been advised by numerous doctors and healthcare professionals that I need to consider alternative treatments and lifestyle decisions due to my elevated risk of having a stroke, given my dad's relatively young age at the time of his. As a result, I've made six lifestyle adjustments to try and stave off the possibility of enduring a stroke like my dad did. These are – 1. Prioritising my blood pressure health High blood pressure, or hypertension, is the leading risk factor for stroke. It's a condition that runs in my family, with both my parents and their parents having battled it. Because of this, this genetic predisposition doesn't bode well for me. My father suffered a stroke due to a blood clot, which could have been triggered by high blood pressure. Hypertension can damage your blood vessels, causing them to narrow and stiffen, and leading to a build-up of fatty material. Juliet explained: "The Stroke Association is encouraging people to have their blood pressure regularly checked. This can be done at the GP, participating pharmacies or blood pressure monitors can be purchased online or from the high street for around £20. "We also encourage people to attend the NHS Health Checks which are available for those over 40 in England and Wales and include a blood pressure check." To prevent hypertension, I regularly monitor my blood pressure through medical check-ups or using a home device. I also adhere to the NHS' guidelines for preventing high blood pressure, which involve a balanced diet, regular exercise, and moderating alcohol intake. 2. Embracing a healthier lifestyle While it may sound like a typical, even clichéd, approach to warding off illness or health issues, it genuinely does make a difference. I've never been particularly sporty, despite my teenage attempts to find an enjoyable, active pastime. However, as I've matured, I've come to appreciate the importance of hitting the gym. While weightlifting might seem dull, which I initially believed, I've learned to love it. Not only does it contribute to a healthy heart, crucial for stroke prevention, it also helps reduce blood pressure and slow down the process of artery clogging. 3. Prioritising breaks when necessary A few months before my father suffered his stroke, he was given medical leave from work due to extreme stress. The NHS states excessive work pressure can lead to stress, impacting our happiness and quality of life, and leaving us feeling physically and mentally unwell. After being urged to return to work prematurely, where he was immediately subjected to the same level of stress, he had the stroke. As a result, I've always prioritised listening to my body and am not afraid to take a day off if I need it. Using stress management tools – like mindfulness or meditation – can also be beneficial. 4. Monitoring my migraines The type of migraines I experience, which cause aura symptoms like blurred vision, dizziness, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound, have been linked to an increased risk of blood clots in previous studies. Despite my best efforts, I've found no way to prevent my migraines. However, I do keep track of when they occur and pay extra attention if they start happening more frequently. Talking about this, Juliet said migraines aren't necessarily anything to panic about. She added: "There is limited evidence that says people who have migraines may be at an increased risk of stroke, but more research needs to be done on this. Anyone with concerns should speak to their GP. " 5. Steering clear of certain contraceptives When I visited a gynaecologist with the intention of starting contraceptive pills to regulate my periods, I was surprised to be given some advice. The doctor informed me I couldn't use the combined pill or any other contraceptive method that uses both progestogen and oestrogen – due to their association with an increased risk of blood clots. The NHS states that 1 in 1000 people on the combined pill experience blood clots as a result of taking it. While these odds are relatively small and don't necessarily lead to a stroke, I'm still advised to avoid them given my already high risk due to my father's history and my migraines. 6. Rocking compression socks For years, my mum has been encouraging me to invest in compression socks for travel. They can also be useful when you're standing for long periods. Initially, I resisted. After all, what 20-something wants to wear compression socks out in public? However, it is important. When you're flying, your body's blood circulation isn't as efficient as usual. As a result, compression socks, which promote circulation and prevent blood from pooling in the legs, are often recommended to travellers of all ages as a preventative measure against blood clots. Now, I've got a comfy pair tucked away in my sock drawer for my next flight. If you think someone around you is having a stroke, Juliet recommends following the NHS FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) test. This includes: Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile? Arms – can they raise both arms and keep them there? Speech – is their speech slurred? Time – call 999 "Every second counts after a stroke hits, to minimise the brain damage caused and give the person the best chances of making a good recovery, both mentally and physically," she said. Or if you have any concerns about your health, you should book an appointment with a medical professional as soon as possible.
Yahoo
06-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
One in five UK adults ‘living with diabetes or prediabetes'
One in five adults in the UK is thought to be living with diabetes or prediabetes, which causes higher than normal blood sugars and carries a greater risk of developing the condition, according to new analysis. The total includes millions of people who are not yet diagnosed, Diabetes UK said. The charity warned that the country is facing a 'hidden health crisis' and urged the Government to act in an open letter to the Prime Minister and Health Secretary. It has called for those who are living with undiagnosed diabetes to be 'urgently' identified, along with more investment for prevention programmes that promote lifestyle changes. The new figures from Diabetes UK claim 4.6 million people in the UK have a diabetes diagnosis, the highest on record and an increase on the 4.4 million reported a year ago. This includes about 8% with type 1 diabetes, which happens when a person cannot produce insulin, a hormone that helps the body turn glucose into energy. Some 90% have type 2 diabetes, which happens when the body does not use insulin properly, while 2% have different and rarer forms of the condition. Meanwhile, Diabetes UK estimates a further 1.3 million people have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, with about 6.3 million people living with non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, also known as prediabetes. If left untreated, prediabetes can develop into type 2 diabetes, although it can be reversed with lifestyle changes such as healthy eating and exercise. The latest Diabetes UK figures mean more than 12 million people in the UK, or one in five adults, either have diabetes or prediabetes, the charity said. Colette Marshall, chief executive of Diabetes UK, said: 'These latest figures highlight the hidden health crisis we're facing in the UK, and underline why the government must act now. 'There must be better care for the millions of people living with all types of diabetes, to support them to live well and fend off the risk of developing devastating complications.' In an open letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Diabetes UK called for the forthcoming 10 Year Health Plan to 'prioritise urgently identifying those with pre-diabetes and those who have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes' through 'improved NHS Health Checks'. It also called for more investment in prevention schemes such as the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, which promotes lifestyle changes to those at risk of developing type 2. The letter warns that diabetes 'is a gateway to many other serious health issues', like strokes, heart attacks and heart failure. Last year, research by Diabetes UK warned the condition could cost the NHS almost £18 billion by 2035 if action is not taken. Research published by the charity last May also highlighted a 40% increase in the number of people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the UK who are younger than 40. Ms Marshall added: 'With more people developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes at a younger age, it's also critical that much more is done to find the missing millions who either have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes but are completely unaware of it. 'The sooner we can find and get them the care they need, the more harm we can prevent.' A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said: 'It's extremely concerning that there are high numbers of adults living with type 2 diabetes. That's exactly why preventative action is crucial. 'As part of our 10 Year Health Plan, we are committed to a shift from sickness to prevention to enable everyone to live a healthy life for longer. 'We are taking action to tackle type 2 diabetes-related lifestyle factors head on, including restricting junk food advertising on TV and online. 'We are also developing a new digital NHS Health Check that people can use at home to understand their risk of diabetes and how to reduce it.'
The Independent
06-02-2025
- Health
- The Independent
One in five UK adults ‘living with diabetes or prediabetes', data shows
One in five adults in the UK is thought to be living with diabetes or prediabetes, which causes higher than normal blood sugars and carries a greater risk of developing the condition, according to new analysis. The total includes millions of people who are not yet diagnosed, Diabetes UK said. The charity warned that the country is facing a 'hidden health crisis' and urged the Government to act in an open letter to the Prime Minister and Health Secretary. It has called for those who are living with undiagnosed diabetes to be 'urgently' identified, along with more investment for prevention programmes that promote lifestyle changes. The new figures from Diabetes UK claim 4.6 million people in the UK have a diabetes diagnosis, the highest on record and an increase on the 4.4 million reported a year ago. This includes about 8% with type 1 diabetes, which happens when a person cannot produce insulin, a hormone that helps the body turn glucose into energy. Some 90% have type 2 diabetes, which happens when the body does not use insulin properly, while 2% have different and rarer forms of the condition. Meanwhile, Diabetes UK estimates a further 1.3 million people have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, with about 6.3 million people living with non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, also known as prediabetes. If left untreated, prediabetes can develop into type 2 diabetes, although it can be reversed with lifestyle changes such as healthy eating and exercise. The latest Diabetes UK figures mean more than 12 million people in the UK, or one in five adults, either have diabetes or prediabetes, the charity said. Colette Marshall, chief executive of Diabetes UK, said: 'These latest figures highlight the hidden health crisis we're facing in the UK, and underline why the Government must act now. 'There must be better care for the millions of people living with all types of diabetes, to support them to live well and fend off the risk of developing devastating complications.' In an open letter to Sir Keir Starmer and Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Diabetes UK called for the forthcoming 10 Year Health Plan to 'prioritise urgently identifying those with pre-diabetes and those who have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes' through 'improved NHS Health Checks'. It also called for more investment in prevention schemes such as the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, which promotes lifestyle changes to those at risk of developing type 2. With more people developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes at a younger age, it's also critical that much more is done to find the missing millions who either have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes but are completely unaware of it Colette Marshall, Diabetes UK The letter warns that diabetes 'is a gateway to many other serious health issues', like strokes, heart attacks and heart failure. Last year, research by Diabetes UK warned the condition could cost the NHS almost £18 billion by 2035 if action is not taken. Research published by the charity last May also highlighted a 40% increase in the number of people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the UK who are younger than 40. Ms Marshall added: 'With more people developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes at a younger age, it's also critical that much more is done to find the missing millions who either have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes but are completely unaware of it. 'The sooner we can find and get them the care they need, the more harm we can prevent.' A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said: 'It's extremely concerning that there are high numbers of adults living with type 2 diabetes. That's exactly why preventative action is crucial. 'As part of our 10 Year Health Plan, we are committed to a shift from sickness to prevention to enable everyone to live a healthy life for longer. 'We are taking action to tackle type 2 diabetes-related lifestyle factors head on, including restricting junk food advertising on TV and online. 'We are also developing a new digital NHS Health Check that people can use at home to understand their risk of diabetes and how to reduce it.'
Yahoo
06-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
One in five UK adults ‘living with diabetes or prediabetes', data shows
One in five adults in the UK is thought to be living with diabetes or prediabetes, which causes higher than normal blood sugars and carries a greater risk of developing the condition, according to new analysis. The total includes millions of people who are not yet diagnosed, Diabetes UK said. The charity warned that the country is facing a 'hidden health crisis' and urged the Government to act in an open letter to the Prime Minister and Health Secretary. It has called for those who are living with undiagnosed diabetes to be 'urgently' identified, along with more investment for prevention programmes that promote lifestyle changes. The new figures from Diabetes UK claim 4.6 million people in the UK have a diabetes diagnosis, the highest on record and an increase on the 4.4 million reported a year ago. This includes about 8% with type 1 diabetes, which happens when a person cannot produce insulin, a hormone that helps the body turn glucose into energy. Some 90% have type 2 diabetes, which happens when the body does not use insulin properly, while 2% have different and rarer forms of the condition. Meanwhile, Diabetes UK estimates a further 1.3 million people have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, with about 6.3 million people living with non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, also known as prediabetes. If left untreated, prediabetes can develop into type 2 diabetes, although it can be reversed with lifestyle changes such as healthy eating and exercise. The latest Diabetes UK figures mean more than 12 million people in the UK, or one in five adults, either have diabetes or prediabetes, the charity said. Colette Marshall, chief executive of Diabetes UK, said: 'These latest figures highlight the hidden health crisis we're facing in the UK, and underline why the Government must act now. 'There must be better care for the millions of people living with all types of diabetes, to support them to live well and fend off the risk of developing devastating complications.' In an open letter to Sir Keir Starmer and Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Diabetes UK called for the forthcoming 10 Year Health Plan to 'prioritise urgently identifying those with pre-diabetes and those who have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes' through 'improved NHS Health Checks'. It also called for more investment in prevention schemes such as the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, which promotes lifestyle changes to those at risk of developing type 2. The letter warns that diabetes 'is a gateway to many other serious health issues', like strokes, heart attacks and heart failure. Last year, research by Diabetes UK warned the condition could cost the NHS almost £18 billion by 2035 if action is not taken. Research published by the charity last May also highlighted a 40% increase in the number of people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the UK who are younger than 40. Ms Marshall added: 'With more people developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes at a younger age, it's also critical that much more is done to find the missing millions who either have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes but are completely unaware of it. 'The sooner we can find and get them the care they need, the more harm we can prevent.' A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said: 'It's extremely concerning that there are high numbers of adults living with type 2 diabetes. That's exactly why preventative action is crucial. 'As part of our 10 Year Health Plan, we are committed to a shift from sickness to prevention to enable everyone to live a healthy life for longer. 'We are taking action to tackle type 2 diabetes-related lifestyle factors head on, including restricting junk food advertising on TV and online. 'We are also developing a new digital NHS Health Check that people can use at home to understand their risk of diabetes and how to reduce it.'
