Thousands of Australians have been dealt a shocking reality check after taking part in Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure Check, according to the Stroke Foundation.
The foundation’s campaign has just passed the halfway mark, with figures showing one in three participants has high blood pressure, putting them at serious risk of stroke.
More than 36,000 people have taken advantage of the free health checks at Priceline Pharmacy and participating sites across Australia so far, with many surprised by their results.
Priceline Pharmacies in Mandurah and Pinjarra are currently offering the check.
Stroke Foundation Western Australia State Manager Jonine Collins said 38 per cent of the men and 27 per cent of the women checked in Western Australia so far have recorded high blood pressure.
“The figures are concerning because high blood pressure is one of the key factors in stroke, which is one of the nation’s biggest killers and causes of disability,” Ms Collins said.
“More than 436,000 people are living with uncontrolled high blood pressure in Western Australia. It does not have any symptoms, so the results have been a wake-up call for many.
“As a result of Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure Check, thousands of people have been referred to their GP for follow up and will now be able to make some lifestyle changes to bring their readings down and reduce their stroke risk”, she said.
Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure check runs across the country until June 14 and is aiming for more than 56,000 health checks in one month which was last year’s record.
“It’s not too late to take part,” Ms Collins said.
“I encourage everyone to get a potentially life-saving blood pressure check at a Priceline Pharmacy near you. It only takes five to 10 minutes.
“It could be that light bulb moment you need to make health a priority and help reduce the incidence of stroke,” she said.
Visit strokefoundation.org.au to find the site nearest you.
