The NHS in Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West has launched a campaign to encourage people aged 40 and over to get their blood pressure checked for free at a local pharmacy.

High blood pressure rarely has symptoms and is often described as a ‘silent killer’ which affects an estimated one in three adults. Around three in 10 of these cases remain undiagnosed. So, because there are often ‘no clues’ you have high blood pressure - the only way to find out is to have a simple blood pressure test.

With the NHS announcing an additional 2.5 million blood pressure checks in community pharmacies over this year and next, people aged 40 and over are urged to get a free test. The procedure is quick, painless and there is no need to book in advance.

A recent NHS survey about people’s perceptions of high blood pressure found one in six of those surveyed did not have a blood pressure check because they do not feel unhealthy or stressed. 

Local community pharmacist, Olivier Picard, said: “Many people in our Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West area unknowingly have high blood pressure. As part of the NHS ‘Pharmacy First’ programme, community pharmacies are now offering more blood pressure checks than ever. They are free, quick and you don’t even need an appointment.

“Left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease and vascular dementia, so getting your blood pressure checked could save your life. And if you are diagnosed, the good news is that it’s usually easily treatable. 

If you’re age 40 and over and haven’t had a check in the last six months, don’t put it off any longer.”

Find a pharmacy that offers free blood pressure checks near you by searching “pharmacy blood pressure check” or visiting the NHS website Find a pharmacy that offers free blood pressure checks - NHS (www.nhs.uk)