Australia's Biggest Blood Pressure Check - a life-saver
Thousands of Australians have received a life-saving wake-up call discovering they were at serious risk of stroke after taking part in Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure Check this month.
As the campaign reaches its mid-point, a shocking one in three or 4000 of those tested have been urgently referred onto their doctor for advice on how to lower their stroke risk and improve their health.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan urged local residents to continue to take advantage of the free checks.
“An alarming number of people have been identified with high blood pressure, most of whom had no idea they are at risk of stroke prior to the check,’’ Ms McGowan said.
“Those that have been referred on to their doctor include men and women aged 30 to 80, from right across the community – stroke does not discriminate.
“Currently, one in six of us will have a stroke in our lifetime, but it doesn’t have to be this way, many strokes can be prevented. These early results highlight that far too many of us remain unaware of the steps we can take to protect ourselves from unnecessary death and disability caused by stroke.
“Let’s take the pressure down this month and raise awareness of the link between high blood pressure and stroke. Take advantage of a free, quick and simple check anytime this month at an Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure Check site near you,” she said.
During April, Stroke Foundation, in partnership with Priceline Pharmacy, is aiming to deliver 50,000 free blood pressure checks around the country and raise vital awareness of the risks associated with stroke.
Priceline Health Expert Dr John D’Arcy said Priceline Pharmacy was proud to partner with Stroke Foundation in Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure Check as part of its ongoing mission to improve the health of Australians.
“I’m joining the Stroke Foundation in calling on local residents to take advantage of a free blood pressure check. It will only take five minutes and could save your life,” Dr D’Arcy said “By checking blood pressure and completing a simple questionnaire health professionals will be able to help identify people who may be at risk of stroke and other chronic illnesses. Those at risk will be referred to their doctor for advice on how to lower their risk and improve their health.
“High blood pressure is among the most important known risk factors for stroke, causing damage to blood vessel walls, which may eventually lead to a stroke. High blood pressure has no symptoms, the only way to know your blood pressure is to have it checked.”
Ms McGowan said high blood pressure was known as a ‘silent killer’ for a reason.
“Stroke is one of this country’s biggest killers and a leading cause of disability – it strikes down thousands of Australians each year,’’ she said.
“There are simple things we can all do to reduce our risk of stroke – manage your blood pressure, eat healthy, exercise, don’t smoke and limit your alcohol consumption.
“Don’t let a health crisis like a stroke, be your first sign of high blood pressure. Join us in Australia’s Blood Pressure Check this April and help us fight this terrible disease.”
Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure Check is on now with free checks to be provided at hundreds of locations across Australia including Priceline Pharmacy stores, selected Westfield shopping centers and Know your Numbers sites in Queensland. To find your nearest site visit www.strokefoundation.com.au
What: Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure CheckThe check takes 5-10 minutes and includes:
- A simple questionnaire
- Waist measurement (and in some cases other basic measurements)
- Blood pressure check
- You will then receive an interpretation of your results and be provided with lifestyle advice and/or referral to a doctor for a comprehensive assessment if required.
To find your nearest site visit www.strokefoundation.com.au
When: 8 April – 4 May
Where: Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure Check locations:
Visit www.strokefoundation.com.au to find the site nearest you
Local interview and picture opportunities are available on request.