"Know your Numbers" is the important message from local Heart & Stroke Charity Croí, who has just announced details of a FREE public talk on Blood Pressure in Mayo to mark World Hypertension Day which takes place every year during May.

This FREE public meeting entitled "How to Control your Blood Pressure and reduce your risk of Heart Disease and Stroke" will take place in the TF Royal Hotel, Castlebar on Monday 25th May at 7.30pm. The guest speaker will be Dr. Faisal Sharif, Consultant Cardiologist, University Hospital, Galway.

Announcing details of this initiative, Croí Nurse, Ailish Houlihan, said "Blood Pressure is regarded as a silent risk factor for heart disease and stroke, because the majority of people do not experience any symptoms when their blood pressure is raised. Research conducted by Croí in Mayo revealed that amongst the 1,500 adults who received a cardiac risk factor assessment, 40% of those screened had high blood pressure, many of whom were not aware of this prior to their assessment. Therefore, it is vital that you get your blood pressure checked and know your blood pressure levels. The good news, however, is that blood pressure can be controlled by making simple lifestyle changes including reducing salt in your diet, managing your weight, getting more active and quitting smoking."

Cardiovascular disease remains the number one cause of death in Ireland with blood pressure identified as one of the most important risk factors for both heart disease and stroke. This talk provides an ideal opportunity to meet with a cardiologist with expertise in blood pressure management, and receive up-to-date advice and learn some useful tips on how to control your blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. "The greatest impact on reducing cardiovascular risk comes from people changing their lifestyle, and managing risk factors such as Blood Pressure" says Houlihan.

Croí is rolling out this health promotion initiative locally in association with Mayo Primary, Community and Continuing Care as part of their on-going collaboration on the ‘Mayo Action on Heart Disease & Stroke' programme which aims to reduce the impact of heart disease and stroke on families in Mayo.

For more information on managing your blood pressure contact Croí on 091-544310 for a copy of the Croí booklet ‘Take Control of your Blood Pressure' or visit www.croi.ie and click on ‘Health Info'.091-544310

ENDS

For more information contact:
Ailish Houlihan
Croí Nurse Lead
‘Mayo Action on Heart Disease & Stroke'
Mayo PCCC
St. Mary's Headquarters
Castlebar
Tel: 094-9049172
Email: ailish@croi.ie094-9049172