High-street pharmacies across England are to offer free cholesterol tests to identify people at risk of heart attacks and strokes, NHS England has announced.
Expansion of testing
The scheme, which begins in the autumn, will see pharmacists carry out a simple finger-prick test that gives a result in minutes. Anyone found to have high cholesterol will be offered advice and, where necessary, referred to their GP for further checks and possible treatment with statins.
The move is part of a wider drive to cut the number of cardiovascular disease deaths, which remain one of the leading causes of premature death in the UK.
Who is eligible
The tests will be offered to people aged 40 to 74 who have not had a cholesterol check in the last five years and who have certain risk factors, such as being overweight, having high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease.
Officials said the scheme could prevent up to 1,200 heart attacks and strokes a year, and save hundreds of lives.
Impact and rollout
NHS England said the initiative would also help reduce pressure on GPs, freeing up appointments for other patients. The service will be available at around 9,000 pharmacies across the country, with more expected to join later.
Pharmacists will be trained to use the testing kits and to interpret the results. The NHS will provide the equipment and cover the cost of the tests.
The announcement was welcomed by health charities, which said it would make it easier for people to access checks without needing to see a doctor.
