64 per cent of men have heart age 10 years older than they are

Public Health England’s (PHE) Heart Age Test shows that 64 per cent of people with a heart 10 years older than their actual age are male.

The Heart Age Test is the only known way of measuring our heart age, which shows how many years we can expect to live healthily without a heart attack or stroke. The higher the heart age, the higher the risk.

Analysis of 1.2 million test results shows that the majority of people with a heart 10 years older than their actual age are male.

PHE’s campaign is leading the way in addressing how people think about their heart health, encouraging them to be as familiar with their heart age as they are with their weight or height.

PHE is encouraging adults to take three minutes out of their day to take the Heart Age Test, designed for those aged over 30. A new version of the test forms part of PHE’s One You campaign, which supports adults in making simpler changes towards a longer, happier life. People who take the test will be referred to apps, advice and resources to help them eat and drink better, get active, and quit smoking o improve their heart health.

The campaign runs throughout September in a partnership with British Heart Foundation, Stroke Association and Blood Pressure UK. For the first time, the test will direct users to their nearest blood pressure station if they do not know theirs, as those with high blood pressure are more at risk of heart disease or stoke.

Jamie Waterfall, 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 stroke 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.”

Katherine Jenner, chief executive officer of Blood Pressure UK, said: “We’re pleased to be teaming up with the Heart Age Test to create an easier way to put people in control of their health. Getting your blood pressure tested in your nearest pharmacy or health centre can be the first important step to prolonging your life.”

Mike Knapton, medical director at the British Heart Foundation, 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.”