RESIDENTS are being urged to get their blood pressure checked for free after figures revealed that more than 50,000 people in the borough suffer with the condition.

Of that number, an estimated 18,000 unaware they have high blood pressure; so to target that the council have organised Know Your Numbers! Week, which is part which is the UK’s biggest free blood pressure testing event.

This will be held at ‘pressure stations’ around the borough from September 18 to 24.

High blood pressure has no obvious symptoms but it is linked to at least 50 per cent of all strokes and heart attacks and increases the risk of kidney disease and dementia.

Blood Pressure UK warns that a poor diet and excess salt is leading more young people to develop high blood pressure - putting them at risk of having an early stroke.

However, knowing your blood pressure number, like many people know their height or weight, can help prevent that from happening.

Figures show the proportion of strokes in working age people, those aged 25 to 64, has increased two thirds despite an overall drop in the number of strokes – hence why people of all ages are advised to take part.

Cabinet member for public health and wellbeing, Cllr Gill Neal, said: “The message to people is to take charge of their health and get their blood pressure checked.

“Blood pressure is one of the most preventable and treatable conditions but remains one of the leading causes of death.

“As an individual having your blood pressure checked is the most important step that you can take to reduce your risk of stroke, heart attack or heart failure.”

Shefalee Loth, nutritionist at Blood Pressure UK added: “Over the last few years, we have seen an increase in younger patients with high blood pressure, often as a result of too much salt and poor diet.

“If you start making small changes to your lifestyle when you are young, such as eating less salt, more fruit and vegetables, taking more exercise and keeping to a healthy weight, you will stay healthier and prevent strokes and heart disease.”

There are a number of free drop-in sessions where you can get your blood pressure checked in St Helens

Chain Lane Community Centre on Tuesday and Wednesday from 1pm to 2pm.

The Deafness Resource Centre on Wednesday from 2pm to 5pm.

St Helens Independent Living Services Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm

Crownway Community Centre Monday to Friday from noon to 4pm.