Free blood pressure checks will be on offer around Otago today to encourage people to find out if they are at risk of having a stroke.
The New Zealand Stroke Foundation says statistics show thousands of New Zealanders are suffering from undiagnosed high blood pressure, the single biggest risk factor for stroke. Stroke is the the second biggest killer in New Zealand and the leading cause of disability.
It can affect people of all ages.
About 25% of strokes occur in people under the age of 60.
Stroke Foundation chief executive Mark Vivian said there was blood pressure testing could save lives.
"Nearly every hour someone in New Zealand has a stroke, but nearly one of every three strokes could be prevented by control of high blood pressure."
Most people with high blood pressure can be treated effectively and benefit greatly from lifestyle changes, such as cutting down on alcohol and salt, stopping smoking, reducing stress and leading a healthier lifestyle.
A stroke is basically a brain attack, in which blood flow to the brain is suddenly interrupted, causing brain-cell damage.
Free checks will be offered at Unichem Mornington Pharmacy, in Dunedin; Taieri and Unichem Central Pharmacy, in Mosgiel; North End Chemist and Oamaru Pharmacy, in Oamaru; Palmerston Pharmacy, in Palmerston; Unichem Wilkinson Pharmacy, in Queenstown; and Unichem Wanaka Pharmacy, in Wanaka.
This week is Stroke Awareness Week.
