Know Your Numbers Week 2024: How blood pressure checks can save lives

People in Wakefield District are being encouraged to get their blood pressure checked as part of the UK’s biggest testing and awareness event.

Know Your Numbers! Week (2 September to 8 September) reaches many who have high blood pressure and don’t know it, so they can get the treatment and support they need to bring it under control.

Every September, thousands of checks are undertaken that have the potential to prevent heart attacks and strokes.

In Wakefield District, such checks now take place all year round thanks to Healthy Hearts Community Hubs, located in local libraries and community centres, which were launched during Know Your Numbers! Week last year.

Since then, 651 blood pressure checks have been carried out across 23 sessions – with 247 readings of elevated blood pressure and 11 people diagnosed with hypertension, which is high blood pressure.

Meanwhile a network of Blood Pressure Wellbeing Champions has also been introduced to carry out checks in communities.

Mel Brown, Director of System Reform and Integration at Wakefield District Health and Care Partnership, said: “As a district, cardiovascular disease prevention is a key priority to improve the health outcomes for all our residents living in Wakefield.

“Getting a blood pressure check is the first step to preventing heart attacks and strokes.

“By knowing your numbers, people can start making healthy lifestyle changes or take medicines if needed to bring their blood pressure down to a healthy level.”

During Know Your Numbers! Week in Wakefield District, the health improvement team will be conducting checks with the Street Scene Team at their depots and Blood Pressure Wellbeing Champions will be conducting checks in communities.

You can get your blood pressure checked at your local pharmacy, your GP practice or through the over 40s NHS Health Check. Ask your GP surgery or for more information visit the NHS website.

Alternatively, home monitoring is also an effective and inexpensive way to keep blood pressure under control. More details of how to measure your blood pressure at home can be found online.