The NHS is urging people across Surrey to check their blood pressure as part of a national campaign.

Know Your Numbers Week runs until Sunday, 13 September and is led by Blood Pressure UK to raise awareness of the risks of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.

NHS Surrey and Sussex are encouraging people to know their blood pressure numbers and understand what they can do to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart attacks and strokes.

High blood pressure often has no symptoms, meaning people can have it without knowing. Regular blood pressure checks can help identify hypertension early, allowing people to get the advice, treatment and support they need to manage their blood pressure and reduce their risk of serious illness.

NHS services are urging all adults aged 40 and above to take advantage of the free NHS blood pressure checks available in participating community pharmacies.

Anyone aged 40 or over who lives in England and does not already have a diagnosis of high blood pressure, or has not had their blood pressure checked by a healthcare professional in the past five years, can use the service - no GP appointment is needed.

Dr Suneeta Kochhar, GP and clinical lead for cardiovascular disease prevention, said: “Raised blood pressure is the greatest risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. Up to a third of people in the UK may be unaware that they have raised blood pressure, This is because most people do not have any symptoms. The only way to detect this is by having a blood pressure check.

“Knowing your numbers - just like you know your height and weight - can help you take steps to protect your health and live a longer, healthier life.”