Analysis of data from Public Health England’s Heart Age Test shows that many are at risk of heart attack or stroke – and that the risk is particularly high in men aged 50 and over.

The test gives users an indication of how many years they can expect to live healthily without suffering a heart attack or stroke, based on answers to a range of lifestyle and medical questions. A new version of the test forms part of PHE’s One You campaign, which runs throughout September, and which sees cardiovascular charities British Heart Foundation, Stroke Association and Blood Pressure UK teaming up with the health body. 

Analysis of 1.2 million test results shows that 12 per cent have a heart age at least 10 years older than their actual age. The majority of these (64 per cent) are male. One in 10 men aged 50 have a heart age that is 10 years older than their actual age, says PHE.

Associate professor Jamie Waterall, lead for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention at PHE, said: “We should all aim for our heart age to be the same as our real age – addressing our risk of heart disease and stoke should not be left until we are older. The Heart Age Test is really important as it gives an immediate idea of heart attack and stroke risk, with no doctor’s appointment needed.”

Dr Mike Knapton, medical director at the British Heart Foundation (BHF), said: “It’s extremely worrying that so many people don’t know their blood pressure or cholesterol levels, as these silent conditions can lead to a deadly heart attack or stroke if untreated.

“The Heart Age Test is a quick and easy way to estimate the number of years you will live in good health. If you are concerned by the age of your heart, make an appointment with your GP.”