9 health tests that could 'save your life' especially in later years, say experts

Early diagnosis can drastically change your treatment and survival rates for a range of different conditions, some of which are completely symptom-less. emphasised the importance of preventative measures: "Having some routine health checks, you can spot any problems in the early stages when they're easier to treat."

Abdominal aortic aneurysm test

Also known as AAA, this check focuses on identifying swelling within the aorta, the primary artery linking the heart to the abdomen. The danger of this type of aneurysm lies in its asymptomatic nature, until it ruptures which can cause deadly internal bleeding.

The AAA screening is a quick, non-invasive ultrasound of the abdomen to detecting and treating any swelling before it leads to a rupture. In England, this test is provided to men when they reach the age of 65. Although it isn't standard for women, those concerned about their risk for an AAA can request a screening.

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Blood Pressure

High typically doesn't present any noticeable symptoms on its own, until it leads to severe health problems such as heart disease, stroke and kidney disease. These checks can be performed at your local pharmacy, by your practice nurse or GP, or even at home with a blood pressure cuff.

If you conduct the test at home and your readings fall outside of the normal range, it's advised to repeat the test multiple times. If the readings consistently show high blood pressure, it's important to contact your GP. You may also be offered tests to check your kidney function if you have high blood pressure.

Bowel Cancer Screening

Bowel cancer is the 4th most common cancer in the UK, and this screening can be done within the comfort of your own home. It's offered every two years to all men and women aged between 60 and 74, but it's also being extended to individuals as young as 50.

The Faecal Immunochemical Test will be sent to you in the post along with instructions on how to collect your stool sample and send it back to the laboratory for analysis. The results usually take around two weeks to arrive. While it won't directly diagnose bowel cancer, you may need to undergo further tests like a colonoscopy depending on the screening results.

Breast Screening

Mammograms, which are x-rays of each breast, are one of the most reliable methods to screen for breast cancer, the most common type of cancer among women in the UK. Women receive their first invitation for a breast screening between the ages of 50 and 53.

From that point forward, you should be invited for a screening every three years until you reach the age of 70. The is currently testing the extension of this screening to those aged between 47 and 73.

Cervical screening

Also referred to as a smear test, this can detect a variety of abnormalities in the cervix that could lead to cervical cancer. The internal examination is known to be uncomfortable but has reduced the number of people dying from the disease by half since its introduction.

All women aged between 25-64 are eligible for a free cervical screening test every 3-5 years. Similar to bowel cancer screening, an abnormal result does not necessarily mean you have cancer, as one in 12 women receive abnormal results that necessitate further tests.

Cholesterol tests

High cholesterol levels may not exhibit symptoms until they cause a medical emergency such as a heart attack or stroke. Your GP or local pharmacy should be able to conduct a blood test or finger-prick test to check your cholesterol levels, which can usually be managed through lifestyle modifications.

NHS health check

This complimentary check-up assesses your overall health risk for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and stroke. It takes approximately 30 minutes and a healthcare professional will take several measurements such as your height and weight, as well as asking questions about your lifestyle and family history.

If you're over 65, your health check could include information on the early warning signs of dementia. From ages 40 to 74, you're entitled to a health check-up every five years.

Skin check

Monitoring your skin for changes is crucial, especially if you have moles. Changes in colour, size, or shape could be a sign of skin cancer.

It's recommended to self-examine your skin every few weeks, and if you notice any changes, a GP should be consulted. Depending on the assessment, a suspect mole might be removed or you may be referred for additional testing.

Vaccinations

Protecting against common yet potentially serious illnesses such as flu, pneumonia, or shingles becomes paramount with age, notes Age UK: "Your best protection is to get vaccinated."

Free vaccines under the NHS are available and can be inquired about at your GP surgery or local pharmacy. Those aged 50 and above can avail themselves of a yearly courtesy flu shot, while those over 65 are entitled to a one-time jab that guards against pneumonia, septicaemia, and bacterial .

At 70, there's also a no-cost shingles vaccine on offer. To find out more about these tests, visit the