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Residents give their heart a happy hour at the pub

ByEmily

Sep 10, 2017 #COPD, #health

ORMESBY residents turned out at the Centurion pub and checked their heart health thanks to the council’s Healthy Heart Check campaign.

As we get older, we have a higher risk of developing conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease or type 2 diabetes.  More than 28,000 residents in Redcar and Cleveland are living with either COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), diabetes or high blood pressure.

It is hoped that Healthy Heart Check sessions – which will be replicated across the borough – will identify local residents at risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, diabetes, dementia or stroke by identifying early signs.

A nurse was on hand to conduct the Heart Checks which included measuring blood pressure, cholesterol levels and to give advice and support on how residents could reduce their risk through making small changes to their lifestyle.

One of those residents who got a check was James Marshall-Mayes, he said: “I read about the checks in the paper and thought it would be a good idea to come down. I’ve never had a check before so it was good to come down and see how everything was.”

Cllr Lynn Pallister, Cabinet Member for Health, Housing & Welfare, said: “It is great that so many people came down to the pub and got their heart checked, the appointments took around 20 minutes and everyone who had one could add years of healthier living to their life.

“If anyone missed the chance to get a Healthy Heart Check, there will be more opportunities for one in the near future.”

Businesses or other community organisations who wish to offer their venue for Healthy Heart Checks are invited to contact the Health Improvement team: healthimprovement@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk

Alternatively residents who meet the following criteria can request a check at their GP practice:

  • Aged between 40- 74 years
  • Have NOT had a heart attack or stroke
  • Do NOT have kidney disease or diabetes
  • Have NOT had a Healthy Heart/NHS check in the last 5 years
  • Are NOT on medication for high blood pressure or statins for cholesterol

By Emily