Take action now urged to stop silent killer

RESIDENTS are being urged to get a blood pressure check at their local pharmacy next month as the key step in reducing their risk of stroke.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is the greatest modifiable risk factor for stroke.
A quick and painless blood pressure check can be all it takes for someone to change their lifestyle and reduce their stroke risk.
Blooms Padstow pharmacist Jane Tran says even if you are on blood pressure medication, it’s important to get yourself checked regularly since high blood is usually asymptomatic.
“Medications can affect blood pressure as well as other conditions such as high cholesterol and diabetes,” she said.
“We’ve also had a few young people who were very active with sport, present with a few heart problems so it’s important for everyone to get checked regularly.”
Each May, Stroke Foundation promotes the importance of blood pressure checking as part of Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure Check campaign coinciding with World Hypertension Day on May 17.
A staggering 4.7 million Australians are living with uncontrolled high blood pressure, and many do not realise it.
A normal measurement is around 120 over 80mmHg.
A measurement of 140 over 90mmHg is regarded as high blood pressure and puts you at increased risk of stroke, no matter your age.