Cardiovascular disease (heart attack or stroke) is the leading cause of death in New Zealand. A New Zealander dies from cardiovascular disease every 90 minutes, and many of these are preventable.

A heart check (or cardiovascular risk assessment) will let you know what your risk is of having a heart attack or stroke in the next 5 years and how you can reduce that risk. Free cardiovascular risk assessments are available for women from 55 years (45 years if you are Maori, Pacific or Indo-Asian) and men from 45 years (35 years if you are Maori, Pacific or Indo-Asian).

During a heart health check your doctor or nurse will:

• Ask about your risk factors such as smoking, exercise and diet
• Ask if there is any family history of heart attack or stroke
• Measure your blood pressure, height, weight and waist circumference
• Test your cholesterol and blood glucose levels

Blood Pressure Checks

Blood pressure may be carried out as part of a routine health check.

We also have home blood pressure monitoring kits, which can be hired out by patients for a set period. Your clinician will advise you this is a requirement of your treatment. Blood Pressure Monitoring Kits are available at the Reception Desk.

If you are unsure of who to see or how much time is required to address your specific health need, please phone us on (03) 435 0777.