‘Our Somerset’, the county’s Integrated Care System, has said a big thank you to the people of Somerset for supporting their 24-hour blood pressure Test-a-Thon from 8am on 5th September to 8am on 6th September as part of their ongoing ‘Take the Pressure Off’ campaign.
Launching at Mr Miles Tea Room in Taunton, hundreds of people across Somerset have had their blood pressure tested as part of the initiative. Testing teams also visited supermarkets, shopping centres and businesses, including Hinkley Point and Jay’s Logistics. They also tested NHS staff at Musgrove Park Hospital and Yeovil District Hospital as part of the initiative that marks Know Your Numbers Week.
Charlotte Callen, Director of Communications and Engagement at NHS Somerset said:
“It was fantastic to be able to test hundreds of people and raise awareness of the dangers of having high blood pressure. High blood pressure is known as the silent killer because 1 in 3 people don’t have any symptoms, so aren’t aware they are at risk; but it’s the leading cause of heart attacks and strokes.”
Professor Trudi Grant, Executive Director of Public and Population Health, joint appointment between Somerset Council and NHS Somerset said:
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who took the time to get their blood pressure checked during our 24-hour Test-a-Thon. Early detection of high blood pressure can literally save lives, and it’s encouraging to see so many people in Somerset taking that crucial step. Our work doesn’t stop here—if you haven’t been tested yet, please make it a priority. It’s quick, simple, and could be life-changing.”
In Somerset it’s estimated that about 40,000 people in Somerset have high blood pressure but don’t know it.
The Test-a-Thon may be over, but it is not too late for people to get their blood pressure tested. Residents can visit community pharmacies for a blood pressure check, or can visit libraries in Somerset to borrow a blood pressure testing kit for two weeks, to enable them to check blood pressure at home.
More information can be found at https://bit.ly/blood-pressure-somerset.
