You may not even need an
appointment for this service (depending on your local pharmacy), as it usually only takes 10 or 15 minutes.
Type 2 diabetes screening Everyone’s risk of developing Type 2 diabetes increases as they get older. According to Diabetes UK, you’re more at risk if you’re white and over 40 or over 25 if you’re African-Caribbean, Black African or South Asian. Other people with a higher-than-
average risk of developing Type 2 diabetes include those who have a parent, brother, sister of child with diabetes; people who have had high blood pressure; and people who are overweight (especially if you’re large around the middle). You’re also more at risk if you’ve ever
had a heart attack or stroke, you have schizophrenia, bipolar illness or depression (or if you’re receiving treatment with antipsychotic medication), or if you’re a woman who’s had polycystic ovaries, gestational diabetes or a baby weighing more than 10lbs. You can find out your risk of
developing Type 2 diabetes by taking part in the screening service that’s available in some Careway pharmacist.
What happens? Your pharmacist will talk to you about your lifestyle, and ask you whether or not diabetes runs in your family. Depending on your answers, you may then have a simple finger-prick blood test to measure your blood glucose levels. If your pharmacist thinks you need further tests, they will refer you to your GP.
Heart health check Your risk of developing high blood pressure and high cholesterol – both of which can be harmful to your heart – gets higher as you get older. And since neither high blood pressure or high cholesterol usually has any noticeable symptoms, the only way to keep an eye on them is to get them tested. If your local Careway pharmacy offers heart health checks, you can get your blood pressure and cholesterol tested quickly, easily and at a time that suits you.
What happens? Your pharmacist will first ask you questions about your lifestyle, including whether or not you smoke, how much alcohol you drink and how active you are. You’ll then have your blood pressure and your cholesterol levels measured, and your pharmacist will explain your results. They’ll also give you lots of lifestyle advice to help you keep your heart healthy.
Asthma management If you’re living with asthma, it’s important to make sure you’re managing your symptoms effectively. Having a chat about how you’re doing with your pharmacist can help pinpoint any problems you’re experiencing, including issues with using the correct inhaler technique or things you’re worried about regarding your medicines. It’s also a great opportunity to ask your pharmacist questions about keeping your asthma under control.
What happens? Your pharmacist will ask you questions about your lifestyle and offer advice if you need it for anything. If you smoke, for instance, they can offer you lots of support to help you quit. Your pharmacist will also check that you’re using your inhalers in the best way possible. This will help you manage your asthma effectively because you’ll be getting the most out of your medicines.
Other services
The availability of pharmacy services varies from one Careway pharmacy to another. Besides the services outlined on these pages, some may also offer one or more of the following:
• Repeat prescriptions • Stop smoking • Flu vaccination • Pain management • Sexual health • Weight loss advice • Allergy service
Find your nearest pharmacy and the pharmacy services it offers by visiting
www.careway.co.uk/find-a-pharmacy.
All About health 13
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