Hull MP backs stroke prevention drive

Hull North MP Diana Johnson today backed a new campaign for blood pressure awareness by The Stroke Association and Rotary International Great Britain and Ireland (RIBI).

Diana had her blood pressure tested at Parliament's Portcullis House to highlight how monitoring blood pressure can help to prevent a stroke.

Working in partnership with Rotary International Great Britain and Ireland (RIBI) The Stroke Association has launched a blood pressure campaign with a series of testing days across the country. Testing days will offer free blood pressure checks, and advice on stroke and its prevention to people of all ages.

The Stroke Association is urging the public to get their blood pressure tested and avoid being a statistic of the UK's third biggest killer. The call comes as the charity revealed figures that show nearly a quarter of people in the UK are unknowingly suffering from undiagnosed high blood pressure the single biggest risk factor for stroke.

High blood pressure is referred to as a 'silent killer' for good reason. 16 million people in the UK have high blood pressure, with many more unaware that they have the condition. Most people can be treated effectively and benefit greatly by making small but significant lifestyle changes. Cutting down on alcohol, stopping smoking, reducing stress levels and leading a healthier lifestyle can all help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke.

Diana Johnson MP said: "Many of us lead busy lives, but getting your blood pressure checked, either by your GP or at a local testing day run by the Stroke Association and RIBI, is quick and simple. It could also change your life for the better. Stroke does not discriminate - it can strike anyone at any time. Stroke is one of the leading health challenges that we face in Hull.

"The Government is making great progress on improving treatment and rehabilitation services for stroke victims, but preventing strokes in the first place is so much better for individuals and their families."

Joe Korner, Director of The Stroke Association, said: "There is no doubt that blood pressure testing really can save lives. Every five minutes someone in the UK has a stroke that's 150,000 every year. But over 40 per cent of those strokes could be prevented by the control of high blood pressure.

"We also know that thousands of people are completely unaware of their own blood pressure levels. Many have no idea that they have high blood pressure and that their risk of having a stroke is massively increased. High blood pressure can be reduced through medication and controlled by changes in diet and lifestyle. Take action, get tested and change your lifestyle - you may prevent a stroke."

Diana was also presented with a bottle of House of Commons champagne by the Stroke Association, which she is donating to stroke campaigners in Hull, for becoming the 100th member of the All-Party