The Heart and Stroke Foundation SA (HSFSA) is encouraging the public to have their blood pressure tested during the annual Get Tested Day campaign on 21 June.
High blood pressure is known as the ‘silent killer' and unfortunately not many South Africans are aware of the risk that they put themselves by not knowing their status.
“Two out of three people with high blood pressure are unaware of the condition. There are many risk factors that are associated with high blood pressure such as an unhealthy diet, excessive alcohol intake, being overweight and lack of exercise,” says Shân Biesman-Simons, Director of Nutrition and Education, HSFSA.
When people are unaware they are suffering from high blood pressure, they are in danger of damaging their arteries and vital organs and this could ultimately lead to a heart attack, stroke and premature death. People should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year, but it is necessary to have this risk factor tested more often if there is a history of high blood pressure.
The HSFSA will be offering free blood pressure screenings at Kenilworth Centre on Tuesday, 17 June from 09h30 until 14h30.
“We invite the public to have their blood pressure tested and know their status - for the sake of their heart health,” added Biesman-Simons.
For more information on the risk factors associated with heart disease, kindly contact the Heart Mark Diet Line on 0860 223 222 for advice from registered dieticians or visit www.heartfoundation.co.za.
Visit our PRESS OFFICE: Established in 1980, the Heart Foundation recently amalgamated with the Stroke Foundation, becoming the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA)- more....
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