News
Why it pays to know your blood pressure
Residents are being urged to get a free blood pressure check and protect themselves from the "silent killer" during Know Your Numbers! Week.
The nation's biggest blood pressure-testing event starts today. Organised by national charity the Blood Pressure Association (BPA), Know Your Numbers! Week gives everyone the chance to get a free blood pressure test at thousands of pressure stations in pharmacies, health centres, shopping centres, workplaces and health clubs nationwide.
One in three adults (16 million) in the UK have high blood pressure, the major cause of stroke, heart attack and heart disease, yet a third don't even know they have it because there are often no obvious symptoms. Everyone is at risk, no matter what age, although particularly high risk groups include people aged 55 and over, and those of African Caribbean and South Asian descent.
The BPA's research has shown that fewer men than women have their blood pressure tested during KYN! Week. Yet many men suffer from heart attacks and strokes for want of getting a simple blood pressure check and taking the right action to lower it.
This is why the BPA has themed this year's event "Bring a man," with women being asked to bring along their husband, partner, brother or son - when they get tested during KYN! Week 2006.
Sue Massey, the BPA's head of communications, said: "Keeping blood pressure at a healthy level is one of the most important things everyone can do to reduce their risk of stroke and heart disease." Lloyds Pharmacy in Ninfield Road is among those taking part.