Next steps

If you are living with obesity (BMI over 30) then you should go see your GP. They can provide you with healthy lifestyle advice and also signpost you to local services such as:

• local weight loss groups: these could be provided by your local authority, NHS or commercial groups
• exercise on prescription: you will be referred to a local active health team for a number of sessions with a qualified trainer

If you live in England, are aged between 40 and 74 and you have not had a stroke, or do not already have a pre-existing health condition, you will be eligible for an NHS Health Check.

Dr James Hider, a GP working in Manchester discusses the health check in more detail below:

This is a free service where your overall health will be assessed and let you know if you are at a higher risk of developing certain health problems such as:

• heart disease
• type 2 diabetes
• kidney disease
• stroke

If you qualify for a health check, you should expect to receive a letter from a GP surgery or local authority inviting you for an NHS Health Check every 5 years.

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