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Free blood pressure checks in May

The Menzies Institute for Medical Research is conducting free blood pressure testing every weekday in May at the State Library in Hobart.

The service is being offered as part of a global blood pressure-testing campaign called May Measurement Month.  More than 100 countries are involved, and in 2017 and 2018 the campaign reached 2.7 million people.

The coordinator of May Measurement Month in Tasmania, Menzies blood pressure researcher Dr Dean Picone, said there were often no symptoms of high blood pressure. “Regular checks are important so that high blood pressure can be identified, and steps can be taken to lower it and potentially avoid preventable heart attacks and strokes,” Dr Picone said.

“The free blood pressure checks are also a great way for us to meet with the community and encourage people to take control of their heart health.”

High blood pressure is more prevalent in Tasmania than the rest of Australia, affecting 27% of adults. It is the leading risk factor for heart attack and stroke, which are also more prevalent in Tasmania than the rest of Australia. For these reasons, regular blood pressure checks are an important way to ensure you are not at excess risk of heart disease.

Pictured: Lord Mayor Councillor Anna Reynolds was among the first people to take advantage of the free blood pressure testing.

Published on: 23 May 2019 4:17pm