CAN YOU PASS A HEALTH CHECK?

These simple tests could help you spot a problem and stay well

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How would you rate your overall health? If the answer is, 'I haven't a clue' or it's been a while since you saw a doctor, it may be time for action. The good news is DIY screening can help put you in the know.

'Regular health checks play a key role in preventing illness by way of early detection,' says senior pharmacist Duncan Reid from Pharmacy2U. 'They can give you peace of mind and help to put you in control of your healthcare.' Here are the quick and easy self-tests that can make a difference.

BOWEL HEALTH

More than nine in 10 people survive bowel cancer if it is diagnosed at the earliest stage, which is why the NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme provides home-testing kits, designed to identify hidden blood in stools. You'll be automatically sent one in the post if you're between the ages of 50 and 74. Not received yours? Call your GP surgery. Don't qualify? 'The SELFCheck Bowel Health Test is a home test kit that you can buy online,' says Duncan. It's quick, private and gives your results in minutes.' It is also important to know the symptoms of bowel cancer, even if you're under or over the NHS screening age.

For more, see www.nhs.uk/conditions/bowel-cancer.

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