Free online Heart Age Test gives early warning of heart attack and stroke risk

Public Health England wants adults across the country to take a free Heart Age Test to find if they are at risk of a heart attack or stroke, the leading cause of death for men and the second leading cause of death for women.

The Heart Age Test is free and available online.

If a person's heart age is higher than their actual age, then they are at an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and heart attack.

“Millions are at risk of cardiovascular disease but don’t know it, putting themselves at real risk of suffering ill-health or dying younger,'' said Professor Jamie Waterall, National Lead for cardiovascular disease at Public Health England.

''Knowing your heart age is a simple way of finding out whether you’re at risk of a heart attack or stroke. By making important lifestyle changes you can reduce your risk before it’s too late.’’

It is paramount that adults in England take the test as one in four in the country have high blood pressure, which can increase a person’s heart age. Yet, a further 5.6 million are living with the condition undiagnosed.

The test has the potential to help millions of people, said Dr Matt Kearney, national clinical director for cardiovascular disease prevention, at NHS England. “The long-term plan for the NHS will prioritise saving lives through improved protection against cardiovascular disease, and increased public understanding of the risks of stroke and heart disease will mean fewer people have to face these devastating conditions.”

The test estimates a person’s Heart Age by asking a number of lifestyle questions. It also predicts the risk of a person having a heart attack or stroke by a certain age. The test also gives a number of suggestions, including dietary and lifestyle changes, to help a person reduce their heart age.

TV Doctor and GP, Dr Hilary Jones said: “With 50 preventable deaths every day of people under the age of 75, this is serious. It’s vital that people know their heart health and take steps to reduce their risk of stroke and heart attack.’’