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NHS to offer free cholesterol finger-prick tests in pharmacies

8/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The NHS will provide free finger-prick cholesterol tests at pharmacies.
The tests target people aged 40 to 84 who have not had a blood test.
A north London pilot screened 2,493 patients, finding 19% at high risk of heart attack or stroke.
At least 88 people from the pilot began taking statins after referral.
Around 100 NHS pharmacies will start offering the checks from this autumn, said Health Minister Alison McGovern.

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Story summary

The NHS will provide free finger-prick cholesterol tests at pharmacies.
The tests target people aged 40 to 84 who have not had a blood test.
A north London pilot screened 2,493 patients, finding 19% at high risk of heart attack or stroke.
At least 88 people from the pilot began taking statins after referral.
Around 100 NHS pharmacies will start offering the checks from this autumn, said Health Minister Alison McGovern.