Abdominal obesity, Blood pressure, Coronary artery disease, Health care, National Health Service, Old age,
Friday, 10 September 2010
High blood pressure – sometimes called the silent killer – is the leading cause of heart attacks and strokes and is a factor in kidney disease, dementia and some eye conditions. Fortunately it can be treated and often prevented.
For this reason the UCKG is once again supporting national Know Your Numbers! Week, the Blood Pressure Association’s annual blood pressure testing and awareness week, which takes place from September 13 – 19 inclusive.
The UCKG is providing a venue – called a Pressure Station – at the Rainbow Theatre in Finsbury Park from 9am until 9pm on Tuesday September 14, Friday September 17, and Sunday September 19.
Church members and local residents are welcome to drop in at any time over these three days to have a simple, painless blood pressure check. They will also be able to learn about taking care of their blood pressure to prevent it from rising to unhealthy levels.
According to the Blood Pressure Association, this is easily done through such simple means as reducing salt consumption, eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, taking regular moderate exercise and drinking very little or no alcohol. The association also recommends regular blood pressure checks and seeking advice from a GP if necessary.
The Rainbow Theatre Pressure Station will be staffed by volunteer nurses who are members of UCKG HelpCentres across London. Marco Andrade of UCKG’s Community Outreach team said: “Good health and responsible health care are important for everyone.
“I know that our volunteers will provide a highly professional and friendly supportive service to everyone who attends, and I would encourage everyone to come along for the sake of their wellbeing and peace of mind.”
“The Blood Pressure Association does an excellent job in helping to prevent ill health, and in doing so supports the NHS by delivering NHS Health Checks. We are proud to be working with them.”
ENDS
Note to editors:
UCKG is a Christian church and registered charity that offers a range of practical support activities alongside spiritual support and comfort. It reached the UK in 1995 and has gone from strength to strength, providing support and spreading the Christian faith. There are 36 UCKG HelpCentre branches in England and Wales.
For further information please contact the UCKG HelpCentre Press Officer via e-mail on press@uckgnew.org or call 020 7686 6033.
