Dozens of people have been referred for further medical support following community health checks in Darlington.
The free 'Healthy Heart Checks' were delivered as part of the Healthy Hearts Roadshow, which brought quick, 20-minute screenings directly into neighbourhoods to improve early detection of cardiovascular risk.
In total, 158 people across Darlington took part, with 29 per cent referred to their GP after receiving abnormal results.
Mark Henderson, associate director for health improvement at Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria (HI NENC), said: "The Healthy Hearts Roadshow shows how innovation can transform the way we deliver care – bringing life-saving checks directly into the heart of our communities.
"Many people won’t even realise they have high cholesterol or blood pressure.
"By encouraging them to take a quick check on the spot, we can help people find potential problems and take action before they become more serious.
"This is about removing barriers, improving access, and helping people live longer, healthier lives."
Of those screened, 43 per cent said it was their first-ever cholesterol check.
Using PocDoc’s finger-prick cholesterol test, individuals received immediate cholesterol results and an on-the-spot cardiovascular risk assessment.
Depending on the outcome, those tested were offered lifestyle advice, referrals to local services, or GP follow-up.
The event was organised by Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria in partnership with Darlington Borough Council,
The Healthy Hearts Roadshow aims to reduce the impact of cardiovascular disease in the North East and North Cumbria, where it remains a leading cause of preventable death and illness.
Checks included blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, height, and weight—all key indicators of heart disease and stroke risk.
Councillor Matthew Roche, cabinet member for health and housing at Darlington Borough Council, said: "This is a brilliant initiative that will help reduce health inequality in Darlington – one of the key aims of the council and the borough’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy.
"It means people who often find it hard to access health services can get a free MOT for their heart, close to where they live."
Attendees also had access to wider health support covering smoking cessation, oral health, and general wellbeing.
Steve Roest, co-founder and CEO of PocDoc, said: "We’re delighted to support the Healthy Hearts Roadshow as part of our ongoing partnership with Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria.
"By bringing preventive healthcare directly into the community, we are taking an important step in tackling cardiovascular disease.
"Increasing access to safe and accurate screening tools is crucial to reaching those most at risk, empowering them with information that could ultimately save their life.
"Through initiatives like this, we can help reduce avoidable deaths and ease pressure on the NHS."
Dr Saira Malik, a Sunderland GP and clinical lead for cardiovascular disease at the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), emphasised the power of prevention.
Dr Malik said: "By focusing on prevention and education, we can help save one in four people with cardiovascular disease and its risk factors from dying early.
"The Healthy Heart Check Roadshow is making it easier for people to take that crucial step towards better heart health – improving access, using innovative screening approaches and helping reduce health inequalities."
Dr Malik said early detection is crucial, as many people live with underlying risks without symptoms, leaving them unaware of their condition.
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With up to 80 per cent of premature heart disease considered avoidable, she said the roadshow offers a single, supportive visit that includes screening, education, and follow-up care.
The Healthy Hearts Roadshow is funded by the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board’s "Healthier and Fairer" programme and delivered in partnership with local authorities, community organisations, and healthcare teams.
Its goal is to improve access to vital health checks and reduce health inequalities across the region.
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