Over 200 local people took advantage of free blood pressure checks in open sessions on World Hypertension Day.

The sessions took place at the Atrium Medical Centre in Dorchester to mark the day which takes place each year on 17 May.

Marina Mendes is a Clinical Pharmacist at the Atrium Medical Centre, part of Mid Dorset Primary Care Network (PCN).

She said “We are thrilled that so many people turned up today to get to know their numbers and have offered further support to those that have been identified as having a high reading.

“Taking five minutes out of your day to get your blood pressure checked could identify if you are at risk of developing several potentially serious health conditions and help you get the help you need to reduce your risk.

“For many people, home testing is more convenient and we can support this through the BP@home programme, which allows you test at home and keep us informed via an app. We are happy to speak to anyone who would like to be involved, just speak to your local practice.”

Around 140,000 people in Dorset are diagnosed with Hypertension and it is thought another 34,000 could be living with the condition but not aware.

If your blood pressure is too high, it puts extra strain on your blood vessels, heart and other organs, such as the brain, kidneys and eyes, so it is important you get checked and take action if your reading is higher than it should be.

For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/high-blood-pressure-hypertension/ or if you have concerns contact your GP practice.

 

Blood pressure is recorded with 2 numbers.

The systolic pressure (higher number) is the force at which your heart pumps blood around your body. The diastolic pressure (lower number) is the resistance to the blood flow in the blood vessels.

Everyone’s blood pressure will be slightly different. What’s considered low or high for you may be normal for someone else, however Ideal blood pressure is usually considered to be between 90 (systolic) / 60 (diastolic) 120/80, while the target for over-80s is below 150/90.