Get your BP checked - and save your life (From Worcester News)

Get your BP checked - and save your life

3:40pm Sunday 5th September 2010 in

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THE public can get free blood pressure checks thanks to an NHS initiative which could help prevent heart attacks and strokes.

NHS Worcestershire will be asking residents ‘Are you gambling with your health?’ as it urges everyone to get their free blood pressure check during this year’s ‘Know Your Numbers!’ week (September 13-19).

Research from the Blood Pressure Association has revealed almost three quarters of adults do not know their blood pressure numbers.

This ignorance means they are taking an unnecessary risk with their health, as uncontrolled blood pressure causes stroke and heart attack.

One in three UK adults have high blood pressure which has no symptoms and is often dubbed a ‘silent killer’.

The free checks are at the following locations: • Morrison’s, Malvern, from 9.30am to 11.30pm on Thursday, September 9 • Waitrose, Malvern, from 2pm to 4pm on Thursday, September 9.

• Kingfisher Centre, Redditch from 10am to 12pm on Monday, September 13 • Evesham Community Contact Centre from 10am to noon on Tuesday, September 14 Some pharmacies will be offering free pressure tests to members of the public.

To find out more about the campaign visit the ‘Know your Numbers!’ website at bpassoc.org.uk/kyn or call 020 8772 4994.

If you have a question about high blood pressure and would like to speak to someone over the phone, call the Blood Pressure Association’s information line on 0845 241 0989 (Monday to Friday, 11am to 3pm).

To find out where your closest station will be visitworcestershire.nhs.uk/knowyournumbers