BLOOD pressure was the topic of discussion for a special event at Saffron Walden Community Hospital.
Nurses from the outpatient department joined forces on 24 September to hold the ‘Know Your Numbers Blood Pressure’ event which measured residents’ of Saffron Walden blood pressure free of charge.
Staff Nurse Melanie Grout said: “We saw 162 people in total and referred 19 of these patients to visit their GP.
“If left untreated, high blood pressure increases your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
“On the day the team found the majority of the patients with high blood pressure were white females aged between 55-64 years, and white females aged 75 years and older.
“The team were surprised to see males with high blood pressure fell into the age category of 35-44 years.
“The event was a great success and £200 raised though a tombola will be used to purchase a new leaflet holder, to promote health leaflets and future health events”.
Approximately one third of people with high blood pressure do not know that they have it so events such as this are extremely worthwhile in raising awareness and help signposting people to the right information.
If you are concerned about your blood pressure please visit your GP.