A Somerset man is encouraging others to take up their NHS Health Check after a sudden cardiac arrest revealed he had a hidden health condition.
Kevin Ross, from Frome, collapsed while playing football after scoring a goal. Friends initially thought he was celebrating but quickly realised he was not breathing. A nearby defibrillator and quick action from bystanders helped save his life
Kevin later discovered he had dangerously high cholesterol and a chronic blockage – conditions he had no obvious symptoms of.
Now recovered and back to his normal routine, Kevin is sharing his story to highlight the importance of regular health checks, particularly for men who may feel fit and well.
He said:
“I’d been told I had high cholesterol, but I hadn’t realised how serious it was. I was really fit, so it came as a huge shock. My message is simple, get checked out as much as possible.”
Somerset Council is supporting this message by encouraging eligible residents to take up their free NHS Health Check, which can help spot early signs of conditions such as high cholesterol, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease.
NHS Health Checks are available every five years for people aged 40 to 74 who do not already have a diagnosed condition. The quick and simple check looks at key risk factors and provides personalised advice on staying healthy.
Councillor Evie Potts Jones, Lead Member for Public Health, said:
“Kevin’s story is a powerful reminder that serious health problems don’t always come with warning signs. NHS Health Checks are a simple but important way to understand your risk and take control of your health earlier.
“We know people can feel fit and assume everything is fine, but a quick check could make all the difference. I’d really encourage anyone eligible to take up their NHS Health Check, it could help prevent something much more serious.”
You can book your health checks here: NHS Health Checks
