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Students keep check on the community

University of Tasmania Pharmacy students conducted blood pressure monitoring and atrial fibrillation screening at Bunnings in Burnie recently.

Atrial fibrillation is a common cardiac arrhythmia, and often goes undetected.

The activity was part of the 'What's your beat' research project led by Pharmacy PhD student Ibrahim Jatau.

The project aims to screen Tasmanians who are 65 years and older for atrial fibrillation (AF).

"AF is an irregular heart rhythm and a major cause of stroke," Mr Jatau said.

"The screening involved the use of a blood pressure monitor with an algorithm to detect AF.

"Thirty three participants were screened and where there were any concerns participants were referred to their GP for follow up.