Free checks in Battle to combat stroke

Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland and the Stroke Association have teamed up to bring free blood pressure tests to Day Lewis Pharmacy in Battle on April 23, to raise awareness of the link between high blood pressure and stroke.

Over half of all strokes can be caused by high blood pressure.

As well as having a blood pressure check, Battle residents will also receive advice on steps to keep in under control and reduce their stroke risk.

Thelma Farr, from the Rotary Club of Battle, said: “Having a stroke can be devastating, but people can reduce their risk significantly by paying attention to their blood pressure.

“Rotary is proud to support the Stroke Association’s Know Your Blood Pressure campaign because it is both simple and effective.

“The test takes a moment to do and potentially, it could save your life.

“Last year Rotary held 1,680 events around the country and this year we are keen to reach even more people.”

Alexis Wieroniey, deputy director of policy and influencing at the Stroke Association, said: “Having a regular blood pressure check is so important. Estimates suggest there could be almost seven million people with high blood pressure who are undiagnosed and at risk of having a stroke.

“Many people have high blood pressure without realising it because often it has no symptoms.

“High blood pressure is far more common than you would think and it can be deadly, but treatable. With events like this, together we can conquer stroke.”

Blood pressure checks will also take place throughout the year. Find your nearest blood pressure event at www.stroke.org.uk/kybp.

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