The Irish Heart Foundation is urging people to get a free blood pressure check in the Irish Heart Foundation’s mobile health unit as the number of people in Ireland with high blood pressure, the leading cause of stroke, is set to increase to more than 1.2 million – one quarter of the population – by 2020.
Representatives from the Irish Heart Foundation and EUROSPAR Supermarket had their blood pressure checked today in Phoenix Park as they announced a new partnership which will see EUROSPAR Supermarket sponsor the Irish Heart Foundation’s mobile health unit for the next year as part of their efforts to help people live healthier lives.
High blood pressure is a silent killer and a leading cause of stroke and heart disease in Ireland. One in six people will have a stroke at some time in their life and yet only half of people with high blood pressure know that they have the condition.
Speaking at the launch of the partnership, Tim Collins, Irish Heart Foundation CEO, said:“We’re delighted that EUROSPAR Supermarket is sponsoring our mobile health unit for the coming year and enabling us to continue bringing blood pressure checks and lifestyle advice to communities across Ireland. "
She said: “Most of us have heard of high blood pressure but unfortunately a lot of people don’t understand the importance of having it checked. People with high blood pressure are three times more likely to have a stroke or heart attack. It’s predicted that by 2020 more than 1.2 million people in Ireland – a quarter of the population – will have high blood pressure, so it’s imperative we are all aware of the risks and get it checked.”
Dr Angie Brown, consultant cardiologist and Irish Heart Foundation Medical Director, said: “What many people don’t realise is stroke can happen at any age. Working age people now account for a quarter of all strokes. We have seen a 26% increase in the proportion of strokes among people under 65 – equivalent to more than 300 extra strokes among people of working age in Ireland every year. That’s why we want all people aged 30 and over to get their blood pressure checked. A simple blood pressure check can detect high blood pressure, which can then be effectively managed through lifestyle changes and possibly medication.”
The mobile health unit has two professional consultation rooms where people can avail of free, non-invasive blood pressure checks. Nurses provide lifestyle advice and information on next steps including managing blood pressure and following up with a GP if necessary.
Strokes can be prevented through better control of blood pressure. Take the first step and get it checked for free! Don’t miss out on your chance for a FREE blood pressure check with an Irish Heart Foundation nurse at EUROSPAR Leixlip, Barnhall SC, Celbridge Road between 10am – 4.45pm on August 31, next.
For more information and to find out when the Irish Heart Foundation's mobile health unit will be in your area, visit the Irish Heart Foundation’s website, www.irishheart.ie.
The Irish Heart Foundation also runs Ireland’s National Heart and Stroke Helpline. To receive free, confidential advice and support from specialist nurses, freephone 1800 25 25 50 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, Thursday until 7pm) or email helpline@irishheart.ie.
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