This Stroke Prevention Day (29 January) the Stroke Association is asking for your help in raising awareness of the biggest risk factor for stroke – high blood pressure – and the simple steps we can all take to reduce our risk.
High blood pressure is the cause of around half of all strokes, but there’s relatively low awareness of how tackling high blood pressure can reduce the risk of a stroke.
High blood pressure often – but not always – has no symptoms.
All adults should have their blood pressure checked at least every five years. Anyone suspecting they have high blood pressure should check it regularly and speak to their GP for advice. There is information on the causes of high blood pressure at High blood pressure (hypertension) | NHS inform
Some GP practices will provide a blood pressure monitor to take home or they can be bought from pharmacies and other retail outlets for around £20.
The Stroke Association’s Stroke Prevention Day web page has a wealth of information and resources, including social media assets which can be used in your own social media feeds.
Around 10,000 Scottish residents have a stroke every year, but nine out of 10 strokes are preventable by managing conditions such as diabetes and making healthy lifestyle choices.
John Watson, Associate Director for the Stroke Association in Scotland, said:
“This Stroke Prevention Day, the Stroke Association is asking people to check their blood pressure regularly and find out the causes of high blood pressure, so they can make informed decisions about their health.
“High blood pressure can be treated with medication while getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking can all pay dividends.”
For more information on stroke and the Stroke Association’s support in Scotland visit https://www.stroke.org.uk/scotland
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