Around one in three people in the UK has high blood pressure (hypertension). Many people have no symptoms and may be unaware that they have high blood pressure. The only way to know is to have your blood pressure checked.
High blood pressure can place extra strain on your body and, if left untreated, can cause damage to important organs over time. It can affect the brain, increasing the risk of strokes, the heart, potentially leading to heart attacks and heart failure, the kidneys, contributing to kidney disease and the eyes, which can result in visual impairment.
Every day in the UK, around 350 people have a stroke or heart attack that could have been prevented. Knowing your numbers is the first step towards protecting your health and reducing your risk of serious complications.
Know Your Numbers! Week (7–13 September 2026) is the UK’s biggest blood pressure testing and awareness event. The campaign encourages people to check their blood pressure, understand their numbers and take action if their blood pressure is too high. Throughout the week, blood pressure checks and information will be available in a range of settings, from community pharmacies and GP surgeries to workplaces, libraries and high streets.
Checking your blood pressure at home is another simple and convenient way to find out your numbers and keep track of them over time. Regular monitoring can help you understand your blood pressure and identify when it may be time to seek further advice.
You can find your nearest participating pharmacy for a free check by following the link below:
https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/pharmacy/find-a-pharmacy-that-offers-free-blood-pressure-checks
Understanding your blood pressure reading
As a general guide:
- Below 130/80: Normal blood pressure. Your reading can be rechecked in one year.
- Between 130/80 and 140/90: Slightly high. Your blood pressure should be rechecked in one month.
- Between 140/90 and 180/100: High. You should speak to your GP or practice nurse within one week.
- Over 180/100: Very high. You should speak to your GP or practice nurse as soon as possible.
What can you do to lower your blood pressure?
There are several lifestyle changes you can make to help lower your blood pressure without medication, or alongside medication if it has been prescribed by a healthcare professional.
- Reduce your salt intake: Aim for less than one teaspoon of salt per day.
- Quit smoking: For support, call the Smokefree National Helpline on 0300 123 1044.
- Reduce stress: Finding ways to manage stress and make time for relaxation can support your overall health and wellbeing.
- Increase your physical activity: Try to incorporate more exercise and movement into your daily routine. Find further advice on the NHS website: http://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise
- Maintain a healthy weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce your blood pressure. The NHS weight management programme can provide support and guidance. http://www.england.nhs.uk/digital-weight-management
Know your numbers, protect your health
High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so don’t wait until you feel unwell before getting your blood pressure checked.
This Know Your Numbers! Week, take a few minutes to find out your blood pressure. Knowing your numbers is a simple but important step towards protecting your heart, brain, kidneys and overall health.
https://www.bloodpressureuk.org/know-your-numbers/know-your-numbers-week/
https://www.bloodpressureuk.org/media/bpuk/images/kyn/A4-Front-and-Back.pdf
