Helping to Fight the Hidden Risks

Those of us suffering with high blood pressure rarely have any symptoms.

For many, the first they know about it is when they have a heart attack or a stroke.

Concern is growing in the North East due to the large numbers of people who are failing to control their condition ( especially since it is preventable.

According to medical experts in the region, those with high blood pressure are three times more likely to develop heart disease and stroke and twice as likely to die from these as those with normal blood pressure.

Now, sufferers across the North East are being urged to “know their numbers”, as part of a campaign encouraging people to check their blood pressure.

Special events have been held at pharmacies in a bid to make people more aware of the situation.

Nickie Roberts, executive director of the Blood Pressure Association, said: “Raised blood pressure is the most important cause of premature death in the world and is responsible for more than 60% of all strokes and 50% of all heart disease.”

“The first step is to know your blood pressure and the only way to do this is to have it checked. Having a blood pressure test is easy and painless.”

Free testing and information has been on offer at special Pressure Stations located in gyms, pharmacies, work places, shopping centres and GP surgeries across the region.

One Newcastle pharmacy is planning to continue offering the tests to people throughout the coming weeks.

Moss Pharmacy at the Boulevard Shopping Centre, Longbenton, Newcastle, has been running the blood pressure checks.

Last week, visitors took the opportunity to make sure they were fit and well during a series of testing days. The pharmacy now hopes to continue the tests.

Nickie added: “The BPA’s message to everybody is know your blood pressure numbers and take that first step to fighting heart disease and stroke.”

Source: Evening Chronicle - Newcastle-upon-Tyne