A new campaign is calling on Lowestoft people to get their blood pressure checked so they can carry on enjoying those precious moments with friends and family for as long as possible.

An estimated 1 in 4 adults in the UK have high blood pressure, but only half are aware of it. There are often no obvious symptoms, so many people may be feeling fine but be unaware of the danger.

If left untreated, this can lead to a heart attack, kidney failure, vascular dementia or stroke. Regular checks are important to reduce the risk. 

Data shows that Lowestoft has higher diagnosis rates of high blood pressure compared with neighbouring areas, and above average hospital admissions and premature deaths for cardiovascular disease.

The Lowestoft Healthy Hearts project is a collaboration between GPs and health partners, including Suffolk County Council and East Suffolk Council, calling on people to know the risks associated with high blood pressure, and how it’s convenient and free to get it checked. 

A new blood pressure machine is available at Lowestoft Library, providing quick, free health checks in the centre of town. In the first two weeks alone, almost 140 people have taken the opportunity to use the machine for a free, discreet blood pressure check, with 11% assessed with high blood pressure and encouraged to take action.

Cllr Steve Wiles, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Public Protection said: “High blood pressure is a serious condition, sometimes referred to as the ‘silent killer’ as the symptoms are often invisible. That’s why it’s so important to check your blood pressure regularly. I am delighted to support this important project which highlights the opportunities for people to get a quick, easy check that could prove to be a lifesaver.”

Cllr Jan Candy, East Suffolk Council cabinet member for Community Health, said: “High blood pressure is sometimes referred to as the ‘silent killer’ – and for good reason. There are often no obvious symptoms, and if left untreated, it can lead to a number of serious, potentially fatal health conditions. Getting checked is quick and simple. It only takes a few minutes but could ultimately save your life.

“I fully support this campaign’s aim to address health inequalities by encouraging more people to get checked in Lowestoft. I would urge as many people as possible to take the opportunity for a free walk-in test at Lowestoft Library. It could be the most important check-out you make.”

Some causes of high blood pressure cannot be avoided but positive lifestyle changes can reduce the risk and avoid further problems or complications.

You can reduce your risk by taking the following steps:

• Eating less food containing high amounts of salt and eating more fruit and vegetables
• Drinking less alcohol
• Taking more exercise
• Stopping smoking
• Working towards a healthy weight

People who have a family history of high blood pressure, who are of black African or black Caribbean descent or those who are aged 65 years or over are also at increased risk.

Many GP surgeries have a self-service blood pressure machine in their waiting area or reception which means you do not require an appointment with a GP to get your blood pressure checked (but you will need to be a patient at the surgery to use them). 

If you do have concerns about your blood pressure and would like to have a GP or nurse check it and discuss your concerns, then you will need to make an appointment. Home monitoring kits may be available in discussion with your GP or other health professional. Many community pharmacies will also offer blood pressure checks.

Dr Titilopemi Oladosu, NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICB GP Clinical Advisor Lead for Cardiovascular Disease, said: “As a doctor, I see the effects of high blood pressure when it is left unchecked. Often, there are no warnings before it causes heart attacks, strokes, and kidney damage. This is why finding out early is so important. This programme offers a simple and easy way for people to monitor their blood pressure, take control of their health, and avoid life-threatening complications.”

For more on where to get checked anywhere in Suffolk, information about using a blood pressure monitor at home, and support to make small changes to your health that can make a big difference, visit www.healthysuffolk.org.uk/healthyhearts

Feel Good Suffolk, the countywide healthy lifestyle service, offers free support to stop smoking, manage a healthy weight and to be more physically active. Find out more by visiting www.feelgoodsuffolk.co.uk.