Find out what your blood pressure is for Know Your Numbers Week.
Published: Tuesday, 6th September 2022
Hounslow Council is encouraging residents to get their blood pressure checked for free at various sites across the borough including selected pharmacies, Lampton Leisure Centres and on the Hounslow Health Outreach bus.
One in three adults in the UK have high blood pressure while six million people are unaware they have the condition nationally.
Getting your blood pressure checked is important because there are usually no symptoms, and the first sign could be a heart attack or stroke. It can cause kidney disease, dementia and other illnesses too but can be prevented and lowered with medications and lifestyle changes - as long as you know your numbers.
As part of a national Know Your Numbers! campaign, the drive is aiming to reach those who have high blood pressure but don’t know it.
Local resident Mansukh saw our Hounslow Outreach bus and thought he’d pop in and get a check: “In my family we have heart problems, therefore it’s very important to check my blood pressure", he said. Knowing his numbers is one way he manages his health, as well as staying active and sticking to a healthy diet.
Vera, another Hounslow resident, recently had her blood pressure checked with the Hounslow Outreach bus. Her situation is similar to others who haven't had the time or opportunity to get theirs checked.
Following the birth of her second child, she was diagnosed with hypertension and advised to get her blood pressure checked regularly.
"Due to work and kids time just passes you by, so as soon as I saw this bus and the free blood pressure offer, I thought let’s have it done today,” she said, adding; “I want to be here to see my grandkids.”
Since being diagnosed with hypertension, Vera has made some lifestyle changes.
“I have registered myself with the gym. I feel very good when I go because I know it’s helping me with the blood pressure as well. I know I need to cut down on salt, which I’m trying to. I drink decaf coffee now. I’m making little changes step by step.
“I would advise residents in the borough to keep checking their BP, and be there for your kids, your grandkids. Don’t cut your life short due to your blood pressure,” she said.
