People over the age of 40 are being encouraged to get their blood pressure checked as part of Know Your Numbers! Week (8–14 September).

NHS Norfolk and Waveney is supporting the national campaign, organised annually by Blood Pressure UK, to raise awareness of the serious health risks associated with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.

High blood pressure is one of the biggest preventable causes of heart disease and stroke. It rarely has any symptoms, which means many people are living with it without knowing. In fact, an estimated 6 million people in the UK are unaware they have the condition.

Around 1 in 4 adults in the UK have high blood pressure. If left untreated, it can put extra strain on blood vessels, the heart and other organs such as the brain, kidneys and eyes. This can lead to life-threatening conditions – but the good news is that once diagnosed, it is usually easy to treat and manage with lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication.

People can get their blood pressure checked at their GP practice or some local pharmacies. Home monitors are also widely available for around £15–£25, making it easy to keep track of your numbers from home.

If you’re a healthy adult aged 40 to 74 living in England or Wales, you’ll also be invited to a free NHS Health Check every five years, which includes a blood pressure test. Eligible residents in Norfolk can book a health check online at: https://norfolkhealthchecks.reedwellbeing.com/

Find out more about high blood pressure and how to look after your heart at: https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/bloodpressure