Over 40? You need to know your blood pressure

Posted on March 11th, 2024

Over40bloodpressure

Help Us, Help You – Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

High blood pressure, or hypertension, rarely has noticeable symptoms. But if untreated, it increases the risk of serious problems such as heart attacks and strokes. Around 1 in 4 adults in the UK have high blood pressure, although many will not realise it.

KEY FACTS AND FIGURES
• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the main causes of death and disability in the UK, but it can often largely be prevented by leading a healthy lifestyle.

• High blood pressure, or hypertension is a key risk factor for CVD. If untreated, it increases the risk of serious problems such as heart attacks and strokes.

• Hypertension affects around 1 in 4 adults in the UK, although many will not realise it as it rarely has noticeable symptoms.

• All adults over 40 are advised to have their blood pressure checked at least every 5 years.

• The only way to find out if your blood pressure is high is to have your blood pressure checked.

• You can check your blood pressure if you have a monitor at home, or as part of your NHS health check, at some workplaces, at a pharmacy or your GP practice.

• The NHS online blood pressure tool will help you understand what your numbers mean and give you tips on how to manage your blood pressure.