Know Your Numbers Week: It's Time to Take Control of Your Health!

Have you checked your blood pressure lately? If not, Know Your Numbers Week (September 2-8) is the perfect time to do so! High blood pressure can increase your risk of serious health problems. The good news is that the risk can be reduced and it can be treated, and knowing your numbers is the first step.

You can have your blood pressure checked in your local pharmacy, or at your surgery, in their waiting room or during an NHS Health Check

Click here to find out more -  Managing your blood pressure

High blood pressure increases your risk of many health conditions

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition in which the force of blood against the walls of your arteries is too high. This can damage your arteries over time and increase your risk of serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and eye problems.

High blood pressure can be prevented and treated

High blood can be prevented with simple steps. Reduce your salt and sugar intake. Eat more fruits and vegetables and less highly processed food – especially junk food. Avoid tobacco and alcohol. Keep fit, active and maintain a healthy BMI. For many people, these lifestyle changes are sufficient to control blood pressure. Hypertension can also be treated with safe and well tolerated medications.

As you age, you may experience changes in your body that can contribute to high blood pressure, such as stiffening of the blood vessels, decreased kidney function, hormonal changes, weight gain and decreased physical activity

If you are aged 40 to 74 – and do not have an existing condition such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease or dementia – you are eligible for a free NHS Health Check every five years. The health check will assess your risk of developing these conditions and offer personalised advice on lifestyle changes and interventions to help prevent or manage them.

If you have African, Caribbean or South Asian heritage, you may be at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure. Genetic and lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity can all play a part. If you are aged 40 or over, make sure to get your NHS health check at your GP surgery.

If you have a learning disability and/or autism you may be at a higher risk of high blood pressure. Being overweight and having health conditions such as diabetes also increases your risk. If you are aged 14, or over, and on your doctor's learning disability register, you can have a free health check once a year. This will help you get the support you need to stay healthy. Check with your doctor's practice if you or the person you care for is on the register.

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Published: Sep 8, 2025