High blood pressure heads-up for 100s of NZers

A potentially life-saving heads up for more than 1700 people. That's the result of the Stroke Foundation's Big Blood Pressure Check, held last month.

Of the 17,000 people who got a free blood pressure check at sites around the country, 1775 were referred to their doctor after their test indicated they had high blood pressure.

As high blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke, that information could be crucial.

"People often say that if you reach one person and make a difference to their life, it's worth it," says CEO Mark Vivian.

"But this is one event where we can confidently predict we've reached hundreds of New Zealanders and made a difference to their lives."

High blood pressure increases the risk of stroke sharply. It's estimated one in five New Zealanders has the condition, but a third of those don't know they have it.

Reducing your high blood pressure greatly reduces your risk of stroke.
"The Big Blood Pressure Check might be over for this year, but we would encourage everyone over the age of 40 to get their blood pressure checked regularly," Mark Vivian says.

"It's a quick, painless test that could help you live a long, healthy life."

* The Stroke Foundation wants to acknowledge the support and help we get from our partners and volunteers at Pak'n Save, New World, St John, Wellington Free Ambulance, Rotary and stroke clubs.