Over-40s Health Check: What Blood Tests Should You Have?
Turning 40 can bring subtle changes to your health that are not always easy to notice. Your blood pressure can fluctuate, cholesterol levels may rise, blood sugar can spike, and hormones can be disrupted, all without any obvious symptoms.
An Over-40s Health Check includes a range of blood tests that evaluate key areas of your health, including cholesterol, blood sugar, liver and kidney function, nutritional status, and other key biomarkers. These tests provide a useful overview of your health and help you make informed decisions about your wellbeing.
In this guide, we explain what a Health Check at 40 in the UK may involve, which blood tests you may need, and why regular health screening can become increasingly important as you get older.
What is an Over-40s Health Check?
An Over-40s Health Check is a form of preventive health screening that helps you keep track of important aspects of your health as you get older. It can help identify changes in key health markers, some of which may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
Depending on your individual needs, blood tests may help assess cholesterol, blood sugar, liver & kidney function, and metabolic health. The results can give you a clearer picture of your current health and highlight areas that may need further attention or monitoring.
In the UK, the NHS offers a free NHS Health Check to eligible adults aged 40 to 74 who do not already have certain pre-existing health conditions. Eligible individuals are generally invited for an NHS Health Check every five years by their GP practice or local council.
What Blood Tests Should You Have After 40?
What blood tests should I have after 40? This is a common question for people approaching or entering their forties. The right blood tests can vary depending on your age, lifestyle, family history, symptoms, and individual health concerns. However, an Over-40s Health Check may include tests that assess several important areas of your health, such as:
Cardiovascular Risk Assessment
Cardiovascular health screening is crucial, especially after 40. It involves cholesterol level checks through a lipid profile that evaluates HDL, LDL, Total cholesterol to HDL Ratio, and triglycerides. Elevated levels may highlight the risk of cardiovascular complications over the long term.
The National Blood Test Clinic offers a comprehensive Heart Health Profile including cholesterol checks as well as C-Reactive Protein and Glycated Haemoglobin screening. You can book your home test kit or get a phlebotomy service at our partner clinics across the UK.
Inflammation Markers
Inflammation markers can help identify signs of inflammation in the body. While these tests do not diagnose a specific condition on their own, they can provide useful information when considered alongside your symptoms and overall health.
LFTs and RFTs
Liver Function Tests (LFTs) and Renal Function Tests (RFTs) provide valuable information about how well your liver and kidneys are working. Liver and kidneys support many essential functions in our body, and regular screening to evaluate the health of these organs can help identify changes that may require further investigation.
At The National Blood Test Clinic, you can access a private Liver Function Test through home blood test kits or at our partner clinics across the UK. No GP referral needed, no long NHS waiting times.
Hormonal and Thyroid Health
Hormones fluctuate rapidly after 40, and women are more prone to these changes during menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause. Thyroid screening, in particular, plays a crucial part of Health Check after 40. An underactive or overactive thyroid can cause tiredness, unexplained weight changes, low energy, and mood swings.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be linked to hormonal changes, appropriate blood tests can help identify the underlying cause.
Diabetes and Metabolic Screening
Diabetes and blood sugar level fluctuations are usually more likely to occur after 40. According to Diabetes UK, almost 6 million people in the United Kingdom are estimated to be living with diabetes, with more than 4.7 million people diagnosed and almost 1.3 million people remain undiagnosed. A diabetes screening can help keep your blood sugar level in check.
Nutritional and Vitamin Status
Vitamins and minerals play an important role in supporting your overall wellness. Vitamin D deficiency is very common in the UK - around 1 in 6 adults and 1 in 5 children are reported to have low vitamin D levels. Less sunlight exposure in the UK, particularly in the autumn and winter, can make it difficult for the body to produce enough vitamin D naturally. A blood test for vitamin D can help detect its deficiency and find the underlying cause.
A vitamin B12 test (Total and Active) is also worth checking, as the risk of B12 deficiency usually increases with age. Calcium levels and bone health also become increasingly important as people get older.
Depending on your symptoms, lifestyle, diet, age, and individual health needs, your doctor may recommend relevant blood tests to assess your vitamin and nutritional status.
NHS Vs Private Health Checks: Comparison Table
|
NHS Health Check |
Private Over 40 Health Check |
|
|
Who is it for? |
Individuals aged 40-74 without any existing condition |
Adults who have symptoms or want proactive health screening |
|
Biomarkers Testes |
5-10 Markers |
15-20 Markers |
|
Waiting Time |
Weeks to Months |
Usually same-day appointments |
|
Results Report |
Results and health advice is discussed with you |
Results are provided with a detailed Written Report with Reference Ranges |
|
Cost |
Free of cost |
Depends on the tests and packages selected |
Who Should Consider Private Health Screening After 40?
Health screening can be useful after 40, particularly if you have certain lifestyle factors, symptoms, or a family history that may increase your risk of developing health problems. It is particularly important if:
- You have a sedentary lifestyle
- You have a family history of heart disease, diabetes, or certain cancers.
- You have unexplained fatigue, low energy, and changes in weight
- You are a smoker or excessive alcohol consumer.
- You want a more proactive approach to understand your health and identify potential concerns early.
How Often Should You Have a Health Screening After 40?
There is no exact schedule for health screening after 40. How often you should have your vitals checked depends on your general health, family history, lifestyle, and specific symptoms. NHS Health Check is offered every five years to eligible adults aged 40 to 74. Your healthcare professional may recommend more frequent or specific blood tests if you have certain risk factors or ongoing health concerns.
Take a Proactive Approach to Long-Term Health
Paying attention to your health becomes more crucial in your 40s, when certain biomarkers tend to fluctuate rapidly. Regular blood testing can help you monitor key biomarkers and spot changes that may otherwise go unnoticed. If you are considering private health screening, The National Blood Test Clinic can be your trusted partner. We offer a range of private blood tests through convenient home test kits and partner clinics across the UK. Contact us to book your appointment today.
