THE NHS wants more people over 40 to get a blood pressure check, saying there are millions who do not realise they have dangerously high levels reports the BBC.
Often, there are no warning symptoms and it is thought about a third of cases are undiagnosed – that is 4.2 million people in England alone.
Sometimes called a “silent killer”, high blood pressure can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Free checks are available at many local pharmacies and GP surgeries.
While the cause is not always clear, risk factors include being overweight, drinking too much alcohol and smoking.
Lifestyle changes, such as cutting down on salt and quitting smoking, as well as medication can treat it and reduce the risk of complications.
The campaign is being backed by Graeme Souness, TV pundit and former footballer, who is affected by high blood pressure and had a heart attack.
He said: “It’s so important to get your blood pressure checked – in my experience, high blood pressure doesn’t only affect the ‘usual suspects’, it can and does affect anyone so you could be at risk without knowing it.
“I’ve had high blood pressure for years but have been able to manage it with a routine of healthy eating, regular fitness and regular blood pressure checks.”
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