This year, Know Your Numbers week runs from 4th – 8th September. This annual health initiative encourages people to check their blood pressure, and raise awareness of the risks of high blood pressure. Blood pressure can give a good indication of general health, so it is strongly recommended to get it checked regularly.

Blood Pressure – The Facts

  • More than 25% of adults in England have high blood pressure. For every 10 people who are diagnosed with high blood pressure, a further 7 remain undiagnosed and untreated
  • High blood pressure is the third biggest risk factor for premature death in England, after smoking and poor diet
  • High blood pressure does not usually present any symptoms, however if left untreated it can cause a stroke or heart attack
  • It is easily treated and managed – through medication, regular review, and making healthy lifestyle choices

There are a number of risk factors that can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure, including age, ethnicity, genetics and gender. However poor diet/obesity, lack of exercise, consuming excess salt or alcohol, and poor mental health/stress are all contributing factors which can be modified to help improve our overall health.

While Statutory Health Assessments are a matter of compliance, they are also a great opportunity for employees to talk to a health professional. In addition to this, it’s a chance for an employee to get their blood pressure checked. It is estimated that up to 80% of premature deaths from cardiovascular disease could be prevented through better public health. Our team will inform employees of their blood pressure reading (and any changes if they have been seen previously by occupational health), as well as offering advice on healthy lifestyle choices where needed.

You can read more about the different health assessments we offer, and how they can help you stay complaint, here.

If you have an employee struggling with cardiovascular disease, and would like advice on how you can help and support your employee, get in touch today.

Find out more about the Know Your Numbers health initiative here.