The National Health Service (NHS) is advising individuals to assess their susceptibility to a condition often referred to as a “silent killer.” Elevated blood pressure, also known as hypertension, significantly heightens the likelihood of heart attack or stroke.
Hypertension is prevalent in the UK, particularly among older individuals. Statistics from Blood Pressure UK indicate that in England, 31% of men and 26% of women have high blood pressure. Alarmingly, half of those with high blood pressure are undiagnosed or untreated.
NHS guidelines emphasize the importance of determining one’s risk of high blood pressure, noting the absence of noticeable symptoms that could mask its presence.
Various factors contribute to the risk, including age-related susceptibility, genetic predisposition, and ethnic background, with individuals of Black African, Black Caribbean, or South Asian descent facing higher risks.
Additional risk factors include being overweight, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor dietary habits – particularly those high in salt, and prolonged stress. It is advisable to undergo blood pressure screenings at a pharmacy or GP clinic if there are concerns about high blood pressure or susceptibility to the condition.
Individuals aged 40 and above who have not had their blood pressure checked in over five years should also seek screenings. Some workplaces offer blood pressure assessments, making it worthwhile to inquire with employers.
Although high blood pressure typically presents no symptoms, individuals experiencing headaches, chest pain, or blurred vision should be vigilant. However, the only definitive method to confirm high blood pressure is through screening.
Dr. Pauline Swift, Chair of Blood Pressure UK, recently expressed deep concerns over the lack of awareness surrounding high blood pressure, emphasizing its role as a silent killer responsible for more preventable deaths in the UK than any other condition.
Dr. Swift urged all individuals, especially those over 40, to undergo simple and quick blood pressure checks at home, in pharmacies, or with their GP, highlighting the potential life-saving impact of such preventive measures.