Pharmacies across Ireland are offering once-off free blood pressure checks - see the list!

The Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) are teaming up with RTÉ’s Operation Transformation to support National Blood Pressure Day 2024. The partnership will see pharmacies all over Ireland offering once-off free blood pressure checks this Thursday, 18th January.

'High blood pressure affects two out of three over 50s, but it is symptomless. Once detected, high blood pressure is one of the few conditions that can be successfully managed, but only if you know you have it. Following a quick, easy, and non-invasive blood pressure check, your community pharmacist can provide you with a detailed results card and any necessary health advice or referral.'

Clare Fitzell, Head of Strategic Policy, at the IPU encourges people to avail of this free service, 'Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a serious health problem in Ireland, and many people are unaware that they suffer from it. Adults should take steps to inform themselves of their blood pressure levels. Those aged over 40 should have an annual check and under 40s should have a check at least every five years.'

Some of the risks of allowing high blood pressure to go untreated include higher likelihood of developing a number of conditions including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Dementia
• Problems with eyesight or kidneys

'Thankfully, many people who have slightly raised blood pressure can successfully manage this through straightforward lifestyle changes. The key is knowing what your level is and taking appropriate action. However, experience tells us that some people who undergo this week’s tests will be advised to seek further medical attention. This is not something to be feared, as it’s far better to treat high blood pressure before complications arise than after.'

A list of participating pharmacies is available on the Operation Transformation website HERE