Health charity Blood Pressure UK has issued a call to pharmacists and other healthcare professionals urging them to take part in Know Your Numbers! Week 2017 (18-24 September).

The award-winning campaign is the UK’s largest blood pressure testing and awareness event. With an estimated 16 million in the UK living with high blood pressure, of which five million remain undiagnosed, the event encourages people to have their blood pressure measured so they can take the steps needed to maintain a healthy blood pressure, thereby reducing their risk of strokes and heart attacks.

The charity says that last year a record 443 pharmacists signed up as ‘pressure stations’, providing both testing services and relevant advice. Registration is now open for pharmacists and other healthcare providers to sign up for 2017.

High blood pressure is one of the leading causes of death in the UK. P3 reported earlier this year on a PHE announcement urging everyone over 40 to get checked, and on a Pharmacy Voice report exploring the role pharmacy can play.

Blood Pressure UK chairman Professor Graham MacGregor said: “Blood pressure is one of the most preventable and treatable conditions and yet it is still one of the leading causes of death in the UK. Those from poorer backgrounds are worse off.

“Having your blood pressure checked is one of the biggest steps that you can take to reduce your risk of stroke, heart attack or heart failure, and yet so many millions are taking unnecessary risks with their health. The simple message is have your blood pressure checked at least once a year.”