Over 40% of adults in the UK are unknowledgeable about a dangerous health condition that often goes undetected, a study by Blood Pressure UK reveals. The research, involving approximately 2,000 individuals aged 40 to 55, showed that 1 in 3 people do not regularly monitor their blood pressure. Only 11% are aware that individuals over 40 should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year. It is estimated that 4.2 million people in England have undiagnosed high blood pressure.
High blood pressure, commonly known as the “silent killer,” is a severe health issue that can lead to fatal complications such as heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, vision loss, and vascular dementia. This condition places excessive strain on vital organs like the heart, blood vessels, brain, kidneys, and eyes, causing gradual damage that often goes unnoticed due to the absence of clear symptoms. Regular monitoring is essential for early detection as high blood pressure rarely exhibits warning signs.
The most reliable method to measure blood pressure is by using an inflatable cuff around the arm to assess pressure in the arteries. A healthy blood pressure reading typically falls between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg, with values outside this range potentially indicating a need for medical attention or lifestyle changes.
Blood Pressure UK estimates that five million people in the UK are living with undiagnosed high blood pressure. Dr. Pauline Swift, chair of Blood Pressure UK, expressed her worry, emphasizing that high blood pressure is a silent threat responsible for more preventable deaths in the UK than any other condition. She urged individuals, especially those over 40, to undergo a quick blood pressure check at home, in a pharmacy, or with their GP for better long-term health.
Phil Pyatt, the charity’s CEO, highlighted the importance of “Know Your Numbers! Week,” pointing out that there are around five million individuals in the UK living with undiagnosed high blood pressure, putting them at risk of severe health issues. Pyatt stressed the significance of early detection through simple lifestyle changes like reducing salt intake or increasing physical activity to potentially save lives, emphasizing that symptoms of high blood pressure are often absent until serious complications arise.