NHS South Yorkshire is supporting ‘know your numbers’ campaign and encouraging all adults to get their blood pressure checked.

Know Your Numbers week takes place from 2-8 September to raise awareness of the risks associated with high blood pressure (or hypertension) which rarely has noticeable symptoms.

Untreated blood pressure is one of the greatest avoidable health risks, as it can lead to a range of serious health conditions, from heart disease, heart attack and heart failure, to stroke, kidney disease and dementia.

It’s estimated that a third of those living with high blood pressure are unaware of this. It’s not always clear what causes high blood pressure, but there are certain things that can increase the risk, such as smoking, drinking too much alcohol, being overweight, and being inactive.

Dr David Crichton, Chief Medical Officer from NHS South Yorkshire said: “It’s important that any problems with high blood pressure are identified early so that necessary preventative measures can be taken.  The first step to improving our health is knowing where we stand, which is why it’s good to know your numbers by having regular checks and even keeping a record of your blood pressure numbers, high blood pressure is treatable and helps prevent future complications”.

“It’s not always clear what causes high blood pressure, but there are certain things that can increase your risk, such as smoking, drinking too much alcohol, being overweight, and not doing enough exercise. You might also be more at risk if you are over 65, have a relative with high blood pressure, or are of black African or black Caribbean descent,”

“It’s crucial that any problems with blood pressure are spotted early so that necessary measures can be taken quickly. By having regular checks and keeping a record of your blood pressure numbers, high blood pressure can be treated and prevented.”

Getting your blood pressure checked is easy and can save lives. All adults over 40 are advised to have their blood pressure checked at least every 5 years. A quick, simple check is all that’s needed for people to be able to start improving their long-term health.

Across South Yorkshire, there are events taking place where people can get their blood pressure checked. Find out where you can get your Blood Pressure checked during Know Your Numbers week here. 

You can get your blood pressure tested at NHS pharmacies, at an NHS Health Check appointment, at home or at your GP surgery.