Islanders urged to ‘know their numbers’ with free blood pressure checks

Islanders are being encouraged to have their blood pressure checked for free as part of a campaign aimed at tackling cardiovascular disease.

Pharmacies across Jersey are offering complimentary checks from 7 to 13 September, giving residents the opportunity to find out whether they could be at increased risk.

Mark Harris, lead for the Jersey Heart Support Group, said knowing your blood pressure was a straightforward way to gain a better understanding of your health.

“Knowing your blood pressure is one of the simplest ways to understand more about your health,” he said.

High blood pressure can go unnoticed

The Government of Jersey is using the campaign to raise awareness of the importance of detecting and preventing high blood pressure.

Health officials say the condition often produces no obvious symptoms, despite increasing the risk of serious illnesses including heart disease, stroke and kidney disease.

Almost one in five people in Jersey is estimated to have high blood pressure.

The government says making lifestyle changes, including eating healthily and staying physically active, can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The latest mortality figures show cardiovascular disease remains the island’s second leading cause of death, behind cancer.

Free checks are available at 20 community pharmacies across Jersey during the campaign.

Mr Harris said early detection could make a significant difference, adding that high blood pressure could often be identified and managed through lifestyle changes, with medical support available when necessary.