Frome man urges others to book free NHS Health Checks

Residents aged 40 to 74 are being urged to book a free NHS Health Check after a Frome man whose cardiac arrest revealed a hidden health condition shared his experience.

Kevin Ross suffered a cardiac arrest while playing football after scoring a goal. Friends initially thought he was celebrating before realising he was not breathing. A nearby defibrillator and the quick actions of bystanders helped save his life. Kevin later discovered he had dangerously high cholesterol and a chronic blockage despite having no obvious symptoms.

Now recovered and back to his normal routine, Kevin is supporting Somerset Council’s campaign encouraging eligible residents to take up their free NHS Health Check.

He said, “I’d been told I had high cholesterol but I hadn’t realised how serious it was. I was really fit, so it came as a huge shock. My message is simple, get checked out as much as possible.”

NHS Health Checks are available every five years for people aged 40 to 74 who do not already have a diagnosed condition. The checks can identify the early signs of conditions including high cholesterol, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease, while providing personalised advice on staying healthy.

Lead member for public health, Cllr Evie Potts-Jones, said, “Kevin’s story is a powerful reminder that serious health problems don’t always come with warning signs. I’d really encourage anyone eligible to take up their NHS Health Check. It could help prevent something much more serious.”

Eligible residents can book a free NHS Health Check at https://service.somerset.gov.uk/nhs-health-checks