People in Inverness are being urged to prioritise their heart health by getting a free blood pressure test while doing their weekly shop.
Tesco has partnered with the British Heart Foundation to encourage residents to take a few minutes for their wellbeing during Heart Month by visiting the pharmacy at Tesco Inverness Inshes Extra for a quick check.
Latest estimates suggest around 40,500 people in Inverness are living with undiagnosed high blood pressure.
High blood pressure is one of the leading risk factors for heart attacks and strokes, yet it often has no obvious symptoms, meaning many people do not realise they are at risk until serious damage has already been done.
When identified early, it can be effectively managed through lifestyle changes and, where necessary, medication.
Tom Lye, Category Director for Health and Wellness at Tesco, said:
“We want looking after your health to feel as simple as going into Tesco to do a shop.
“Our pharmacy teams are here to offer a quick, friendly blood pressure check, no fuss, no appointment needed.
“A few minutes in store can help to give peace of mind or get you support early if it’s needed.”
The free checks take around 10 minutes and can be done as a walk in or by booking in advance, with consultations carried out in private rooms.
Pharmacy teams explain results clearly and, if a raised reading is detected, guide customers towards appropriate next steps and support.
All Tesco pharmacists and staff receive specialist training to help them speak sensitively about conditions including heart disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes.
The campaign forms part of a wider partnership between Tesco and the British Heart Foundation, alongside Cancer Research UK and Diabetes UK, launched in 2018 under the banner that small actions can make a big difference.
Professor Bryan Williams, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at the British Heart Foundation, said:
“High blood pressure affects roughly one in three adults, yet many people remain unaware they have it because it usually presents no obvious signs.
“When it goes undetected, it can significantly raise the risk of heart attacks and strokes, which is why it’s so important for as many people as possible to get their blood pressure checked.
“Although high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems if ignored, the positive news is that it can be managed.
“Small lifestyle changes like being more active and reducing foods high in fat, salt and sugar can have a real impact, medication is also available when needed.
“Getting your blood pressure checked at a community location like your local Tesco is quick, straightforward and could be one of the most vital steps you take to protect your heart and overall health.
“Know your numbers this Heart Month.”
Alongside in store checks, Tesco Magazine and its Real Food website are promoting heart healthy recipes to help customers cook with less salt and saturated fat at home.
With heart disease and stroke continuing to impact families across the Highlands, organisers say a simple check during a regular shop could be one of the easiest ways to reduce risk and protect long term health.
Highland shoppers are being encouraged to take ten minutes, know their numbers, and take control.
