Blood Pressure Event in Llantwit Major

Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland (Rotary GB&I) celebrated 10 years of supporting stroke prevention across the UK with the Stroke Association by giving free Know Your Blood Pressure tests to 120 people in Llantwit Major. It was one of hundreds of free events attended by 30,000 people across the UK to raise awareness about the risks of high blood pressure which is the highest risk factor for stroke.

There are 152,000 strokes in the UK every year, that works out at one every five minutes. 16 million people in the UK have high blood pressure yet many of them don't know it.  If left untreated, high blood pressure can increase your risk of having a stroke.

Jon Barrick, Chief Executive of the Stroke Association said; "These events are so important, many people are still unaware of high blood pressure and the risk of stroke. Thanks to the great support of Rotary clubs we have helped over 200,000 people learn their level of risk and take action if necessary. If you are concerned about your blood pressure and missed your local Know Your Blood Pressure event, visit your GP to have yours checked."

John Clarke, President of the Rotary Club of Llantwit Major added; "The Know Your Blood Pressure events have prevented thousands of strokes over the last ten years. This year 18 people were found to have high blood pressure, but we were able to provide advice and support on how they could reduce their risks. Learning your blood pressure is high can be worrying, but simple steps will help keep it under control. Healthy eating, stopping smoking and taking regular exercise will all make a difference."

For more information on stroke, call the Stroke Association helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk/kybp

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