FREE Blood pressure event could save your life!

THE Thame and Haddenham and District Rotary Clubs are joining forces with the Stroke Association to help raise awareness of one of the biggest risk factors for stroke: high blood pressure.

Residents in Thame and the neighbouring villages are being invited to take a moment to have a free blood pressure test at the Cooperative Supermarket in Thame, on Saturday, April 22, between 10am and 2pm.

Over half of all strokes can be caused by high blood pressure and it is estimated that over five million people across the UK don’t realise they have the condition.

Sandy Davison, Thame Rotary event organizer, said: “Know Your Blood Pressure Day, on April 22, is all about raising awareness of the link between high blood pressure and stroke. Rotary are supporting the Stroke Association with blood pressure events throughout April and the rest of the year. Stroke strikes every five minutes in the UK, but with events like these, we hope to change this. A blood pressure test is quick and painless, and it could save your life.”

Alexis Wieroniey, Deputy Director for Policy and Influencing at the Stroke Association, said: “High blood pressure often has no symptoms, and it’s much more common than people think. That’s why we’re urging as many Thame area residents as possible to take a moment and have theirs checked at Thame and Haddenham Rotary Clubs’ joint event. A blood pressure check only takes a moment, and it’s such a simple way to reduce your risk of a stroke.”

In addition to the events taking place in Thame, there will be blood pressure checks at community events throughout the year. To find your nearest blood pressure event, you can visit www.stroke.org.uk/kybp

To find out more about the Rotary Clubs organising this event, visit www.thame.rotary1090.org and www.haddenham-rotary.org.uk