Do you have "the silent killer?"

12:00pm Sunday 20th April 2008

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CONGLETON people are being urged to have a free check to see if they have "the silent killer."

The phrase is used for high blood pressure, which affects an estimated 16 million people in the UK, with many more unaware they have the condition.

High blood pressure has no symptoms, and the only way to find out if you at risk is through a quick and painless test.

The Stroke Association and Rotary International are launching an annual blood pressure campaign with a series of testing days across Cheshire and around the country.

The days will offer free blood pressure checks, and advice on stroke and its prevention.

Testing takes place at the Bridestones Centre in Congleton next Saturday, April 26, from 9am to 1pm.

"More than 40 per cent of strokes could be prevented by the control of high blood pressure," said Julie Ainscow from the Stroke Association.

"We all lead busy lives, but getting your blood pressure checked is quick, simple and painless, and we would urge Congleton people to take advantage of this free testing."