Health leaders in Sefton are urging people to get their blood pressure tested as part of a national campaign to combat a silent killer.

Blood Pressure UK’s ‘Know Your Numbers!’ campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of having your blood pressure tested and understanding what your numbers mean.

Graham MacGregor, chair of Blood Pressure UK and a professor of cardiovascular medicine, said: “High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, which is why it is often referred to as the silent killer. The only way to know you have it is to have a check. If detected, it can be easily treated, thereby reducing your risk of a stroke or heart disease.”

Colette Page is a Practice Nurse Lead at NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS Southport and Formby CCG. She said: “It’s really quick and easy to test your blood pressure, which makes it a great way to get a picture of your general health. If your reading is high, there are lots of ways to help bring your blood pressure down such as improving your diet, reducing your salt intake, quitting smoking and exercising more.

“People can find these lifestyle choices a bit daunting but there’s lots of information and support available to help you make some little changes that can make a big difference to your health.”

As part of this campaign, local NHS organisations and health charities have come together to offer free blood pressure checks which are being offered at a range of locations across Sefton this week. Health and lifestyle advice will be available from the friendly staff.

For a full list please visit our Sefton blood pressure stations page.

Cllr Ian Moncur, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing added: “High blood pressure is a largely preventable and treatable condition but contributes to the leading causes of death. Having your blood pressure checked is an important step to knowing and reducing your risk of stroke, heart attack or heart failure.

“I urge all Sefton residents to take advantage of Know Your Numbers! Week and get your blood pressure checked and help to keep your heart happy.”

For more information about the Know Your Numbers campaign, visit www.bloodpressureuk.org.