Humber and North Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, working collaboratively with Humber Local Pharmaceutical Committee (LPC), are rolling out free blood pressure checks to workplaces across Humber and North Yorkshire.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often called the “silent killer” because it usually doesn’t have any symptoms and can cause serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss.
The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to get it checked regularly.
Through the Health and Care Partnership’s Working Voices initiative, pharmacy teams are being invited in to workplaces to check people’s blood pressure.
Paul McGorry, Humber LPC Chief Executive Officer, said: “Having blood pressure checks available at local pharmacies and now at workplaces is incredibly convenient.
“It saves a trip to the doctor’s and means people can keep track of their health in a way that fits with their busy schedules.
“Regular checks can help catch high blood pressure early, giving people the chance to make lifestyle changes or start treatment before it leads to more serious issues.”
In November, the Humber branch of The Department of Work and Pensions offered blood pressure checks to its workforce.
Throughout the day, Morrill Pharmacy in Hull carried out more than 40 blood pressure checks to eligible staff. As a result of the checks, five members of staff were booked in for Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) at their local pharmacy. ABPM automatically measures blood pressure at regular intervals over a 24-hour period giving a more accurate reading.
Two members of staff were referred to their GP practice to help get a better understanding of why their blood pressure was high, how it was affecting their body and any health problems they may have.
Dr James Crick, NHS Humber and North Yorkshire ICB’s Clinical Director for East Riding and Hull said: “If your blood pressure is high, don’t panic. There are several steps you can take to manage it through lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, reducing salt, exercising regularly, achieving a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol.
“In some cases, you may also be prescribed medication to help control your blood pressure. It’s important to take it as directed and keep up with regular check-ups.
“High stress levels can contribute to high blood pressure. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help you relax and keep your blood pressure in check.” If you are interested in offering blood pressure check in your workplace then email hnyicb.workingvoices@nhs.net.”