Heart Health

Heart Week is Australia’s national heart health awareness week held in the first week of May each year.

Date published:
Audience:
General public

A Heart Health Check is a 20-minute check-up with your GP to assess your risk of having a heart attack or stroke in the next five years.

As part of the check, your doctor will ask you about your lifestyle, medical and family health history. They will also check your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Your healthcare worker will use this information to estimate your risk of a heart attack or stroke. More importantly, they will discuss the steps you can take to lower your risk.

Watch the Heart Health Check video here.

Do you know your blood pressure?

High blood pressure is a leading risk factor for heart disease. The only way to find out if you have high blood pressure is to have it checked regularly, even if you’re feeling well and healthy. Everyone aged 18 and over should have their blood pressure measured at least once every two years.

Is your heart feeling your age?

It only takes 3 minutes to find out your heart’s age. The Heart Age Calculator estimates your heart age based on your inputs and compares this with your actual age. This calculator is intended for people aged 35-75 years. Your risk of a heart attack or stroke may be higher if your heart’s age is greater than your actual age.

Time for a Heart Health Check?

Book a Heart Health Check with your GP to assess your risk of having a heart attack or stroke in the next five years.

You’ve only got one heart; don’t delay prevention.

Check out the Heart Foundation website for resources for you and your family to reduce their risk of heart disease.

Help us improve health.gov.au

If you would like a response please use the enquiries form instead.