Free blood pressure checks Launched in Yeovil to help prevent heart attacks and strokes
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
A new campaign has been launched in Yeovil in Somerset to help tackle the risk of heart attacks and strokes by offering residents free blood pressure checks.
The initiative, led by Tesco in partnership with the British Heart Foundation, is encouraging people to “take a moment” for their wellbeing during Heart Month by visiting the Tesco Extra pharmacy at Queensway Place for a quick check.
Latest figures from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities estimate that around 40,000 people in Somerset are living with undiagnosed high blood pressure. Often described as a “silent” condition, high blood pressure is one of the leading risk factors for heart attacks and strokes but frequently has no noticeable symptoms.
Health experts say the only way to know if your blood pressure is high is to have it tested. When identified early, it can usually be effectively managed, helping to protect long-term health.
Tom Lye, Category Director for Health and Wellness at Tesco, said the retailer wants looking after your health to feel as simple as doing the weekly shop.
“We want looking after your health to feel as simple as going into Tesco to do a shop. Our pharmacy teams are here to offer a quick, friendly blood pressure check – no fuss, no appointment needed. A few minutes in store can help to give peace of mind or get you support early if it’s needed,” he said.
The Tesco pharmacy team at Queensway Place is offering free walk-in and pre-booked 10-minute blood pressure checks in private consultation rooms. Staff will clearly explain the results and, if a raised reading is detected, guide customers towards the appropriate next steps or support.
All Tesco pharmacists and pharmacy staff have undergone specialist “Let’s Talk” training to help them speak sensitively with members of the public about heart disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes.
The campaign builds on the wider Tesco Health Charity Partnership with the British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK and Diabetes UK, which was launched in 2015. The partnership is based on the belief that “every little help” can make a big difference.
As well as the in-store checks, Tesco Magazine and the Tesco Real Food website are featuring heart-healthy recipes, including dishes low in salt and saturated fat to help customers cook more confidently at home.
Professor Bryan Williams, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at the British Heart Foundation, said high blood pressure affects around one in three adults, yet many people remain unaware they have it because it usually presents no obvious signs.
He said: “When it goes undetected, it can significantly raise the risk of heart attacks and strokes.”
Residents in Yeovil are being encouraged to take advantage of the free checks and make blood pressure testing part of their regular routine.
( Photo: Supplied by Tiger Bond PR 📸 )