Free NHS health checks available now

If you're aged between 40-74 and live in England, look out for an invitation from your doctor.

From this month, the NHS is offering free health checks through local GPs surgeries - an initiative that they reckon could save over 500 lives a year and prevent over 1500 heart attacks and strokes.

'If you're invited, I strongly urge you to go along,' said malehealth editor Jim Pollard. 'It won't be long or painful - a few questions, weight, height and a simple blood test.'

Unfortunately, roll out is slow. The government has admitted that the checks won't be available throughout the country until 2012 or even 2013. This is because each primary care trust (PCT) - the NHS body responsible for GP services - is making its own arrangements. Want to know what your PCT is planning? It's easy - there's a full list of them right here. Or just go to your lcoal surgery and ask.

Let us know what they say - especially if you're disappointed with their plans. Also, if you go for check up, let us know how you get on and whether you find it useful.

PS. There's no free beer - the pic's just a cheap gimmick to make you read the article - but it could be the next best thing. Peace of mind.