A free 'Heart Health Check' pilot pharmacy service is now available in Simmondley to help keep adult heart health in-check post lockdown. 

The pilot is running at Moorland Pharmacy on Pennine Road after a recent pharmacy-led research report shone a light on the potentially damaging impact Covid-19 has had on the region’s general everyday health.

Numark – the UK’s largest community pharmacy network, which includes Moorland Pharmacy – is calling on adults across Glossop to immediately recognise and act upon factors that pose an increased risk to their everyday general health, such as weight gain, increased alcohol consumption, smoking, and a reduction in exercise.

The nationwide study from Numark revealed that three in 10 adults living across the North West are unhealthier now compared to before the start of the pandemic, with 41 per cent admitting to gaining weight and 37 per cent exercising less during lockdown. 

The new pilot service welcomes people in-branch to receive a heart-age score, along with a cardiovascular risk assessment based on height and weight measurements, blood pressure readings and a Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation. The service also offers appropriate lifestyle advice and support or signposting to other local health and support services.

Good heart health relies on people taking regular care of their bodies – carefully monitoring physical wellbeing. 

“Many people have struggled to maintain a healthy lifestyle during lockdown. Whether it’s excess pounds, more alcohol or less exercise, it’s important to take steps to identify risk factors and get support to act on them,” says Dr Sarah Jarvis, GP and Clinical Director of Patientaccess.com, in support of Numark’s new pilot scheme.     

Commenting on the new pharmacy pilot service, a spokesperson for Morland Pharmacy, said: “It’s clear that during a tough year of social restrictions, many people have turned to things that comfort them – be it food, drink or nicotine. Unfortunately, these comfort blankets in excess can come at a cost to the body and increase the risk of physical health conditions such as heart disease, cholesterol and diabetes.

“In the wake of the pandemic, community pharmacy plays a pivotal role in offering everyday health support. By piloting this free health check-up service in Glossop, we hope to actively help curb the increased health risks lockdown restrictions have imposed on the health of the North West.  

“Pharmacies play a hugely supportive role in driving good health habits. Our pharmacy is committed to offering face-to-face healthcare advice and treatment across all areas of everyday health.

“We have witnessed first-hand some notable impacts on local health over the course of this pandemic and will continue to keep our doors open for those looking to seek support and care in restoring good health.”   

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