Increasing evidence suggests that parental risk factors for non‐communicable diseases (NCDs) in the period before conception could affect their lifelong health and increase the risk of NCDs in the offspring. While many of these risks such as obesity, smoking and dietary patterns are influenced by wider socio‐economic factors, screening and identification of risk factors can be conducted in the clinical setting to provide appropriate preventive interventions. This article discusses the role of health care practitioners in preventing the risk of NCDs and opportunities for action in the preconception period.