Know Your Numbers Week - 5th-11th September

Let's make this the year we get all our friends, families, neighbours and colleagues measuring their blood pressure at home. If you would like to be involved or simply share the message, see the different ways you can get involved below.

Home blood pressure monitoring is an effective and inexpensive way to keep blood pressure under control and the evidence behind it continues to get stronger. It gives you a way to take control of your health, feel confident and take the pressure off the NHS at the same time, as there's no need to visit your GP, practice nurse or pharmacist in person. It puts you in the driver's seat, and it really can save lives.

This year, we want everyone to Know Their Numbers! and find those with undiagnosed and uncontrolled high blood pressure. We will:

• encourage the nation to use a simple and reliable blood pressure monitor to measure their blood pressure at home
• and take the necessary steps if their reading is considered high
• raise awareness about the risks of high blood pressure.

Become a Pressure Partner

This role is for pharmacies, gyms, leisure centres, hospitals, GP surgeries, care centres, Local authorities, libraries and employers.

• Promote home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) by encouraging purchase (including in your own pharmacies) or sharing of blood pressure monitors. For example, online via your websites, newsletters and social media.
• Offer guidance on how to use a monitor properly and what to do if the reading is high.
• Direct people to our website and helpline where they can find all sorts of information about choosing a home monitor, how to use it, and how to look after their blood pressure.
• Patients may not able to get a blood pressure check in pharmacies, GP surgeries at the moment, but patients still need help and guidance from their health care professional, and shared decision making on their treatment and medicine adherence. You have a vital role in offering this support.
• Talk about the risks of high blood pressure such as heart disease, stroke and dementia, and reinforce the healthy lifestyle message, namely the role of healthy eating and physical activity.

To find out more about getting active to support your health in Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland visit our page.