The Stroke Association urges the public to get their blood pressure tested and avoid being a statistic of the UK's third biggest killer. The call comes as the charity reveals figures that show nearly a quarter of people in the UK are unknowingly suffering from undiagnosed high blood pressure - the single biggest risk factor for stroke.
The figures reveal that 19.6% of people in the West Midlands are living with the 'silent killer.'
Mr Dunne said:
"We all lead busy lives but getting your blood pressure checked, either by your GP or at an organized event such as Stroke Association/ Rotary testing days is quick, simple and could change your life for the better."
Working in partnership with Rotary, The Stroke Association has launched a blood pressure campaign with a series of testing days across the country. Testing days offer free blood pressure checks, and advice on stroke and its prevention to people of all ages. Stroke does not discriminate and can happen to anyone at any time.
For the closest testing day to you contact Rotary on 01789 765 411 or visit www.rotary-ribi.org.uk
Joe Korner, Director of The Stroke Association said:
"There is no doubt that blood pressure testing really can save lives. Every five minutes someone in the UK has a stroke - that's 150,000 every year. But over 40% of those strokes could be prevented by the control of high blood pressure. We also know that many thousands of people are completely unaware of their own blood pressure levels. Many of those people have no idea that they have high blood pressure and that their risk of having a stroke is massively increased. High blood pressure can be reduced through medication and controlled by changes in diet and lifestyle. Take action, get tested and change your lifestyle - you may prevent a stroke."
Photo: Philip Dunne has his blood pressure checked by Stroke Association nurse at House of Commons
