Forty percent of strokes could be avoided if high blood pressure is controlled – but how many of us know our blood pressure? NFU Cymru is offering visitors to its stand at Usk Show, on 11 September, the chance to have their blood pressure checked – for free.
NFU Cymru has teamed up with The Stroke Association Wales, its chosen charity for 2010, to offer free blood pressure tests as part of the charity’s ‘Know Your Blood Pressure Campaign’. Staff from The Stroke Association Wales will be on the NFU Cymru stand from 11am - 4pm, offering the blood pressure measuring service as well as information on health related issues.
Andy Hilditch, NFU Group Secretary in Usk said, “The free blood pressure check at Usk show aims to bring attention to the causes of stroke, the biggest of which is high blood pressure. All NFU Cymru members are welcome to come and have their blood pressure checked and then discuss the results over a cup of tea.
“The Stroke Association Wales, provides a wide range of services, it is not just researching and preventing strokes, it also helps to rehabilitate people who have had a stroke and helps stroke patients directly through its community service which includes communication support, family and carer support and welfare grants.”
Bridget Stadden, The Stroke Association’s Fundraising Manager for Wales said, “So far NFU Cymru staff and members have raised thousands of pounds for our charity and we are extremely grateful to them for this.
“We know that high blood pressure is the biggest risk factor for stroke and that around 40 per cent of all strokes could be prevented if people with undiagnosed high blood pressure were identified and treated. The Know Your Blood Pressure campaign has been developed to raise awareness about high blood pressure and to offer free blood pressure readings, advice and information to people. We hope that through the Know Your Blood Pressure campaign we can help to prevent strokes and save lives.”
A stroke is a brain attack which causes brain damage. A stroke can be diagnosed by using FAST – Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech problems, Test all three. If any of these symptoms are present call an ambulance straight away. The Stroke Helpline provides information on stroke to the public and is open between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday on 0845 3033 100. More information on The Stroke Association Wales can be found at: www.stroke.org.uk.
NFU Cymru plans to organise and take part in various events to help raise funds for The Stroke Association Wales. Keep an eye on the Union’s website: www.nfu-cymru.org.uk for an event happening near you.
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