News

Health | May 22, 2017

Kealy leads the way in fighting stroke

The Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy MP is urging local residents to take part in Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure Check.

The Stroke Foundation and Priceline Pharmacy have teamed up to offer free health checks this month, raising awareness of stroke and potentially saving lives in the process.

“I urge everyone across the Lowan electorate to take part in this life-saving initiative which helps thousands of Australians reduce their risk of suffering a devastating stroke,” Ms Kealy said.

“Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure Check is all about getting people to take ten minutes out of their day to have a health check and find out more about stroke,” she said.

During last year’s campaign, one in three people tested were found to be at high risk of a stroke and referred to their doctor for a full assessment – many of those referred were of working age.

“I was shocked to learn from the Stroke Foundation that 4.1 million Australians were living with un-controlled high blood pressure putting themselves at serious and unnecessary risk of stroke,” Ms Kealy said.

“Too many Australians are unaware of their stroke risk and the simple steps they can take to make a significant difference to their health. This includes controlling blood pressure, keeping active, avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy diet,” she said.

Ms Kealy said stroke kills more women than breast cancer, more men than prostate cancer and leaves thousands with an ongoing disability – yet stroke is largely preventable.

A person’s stroke risk is assessed by a blood pressure reading in conjunction with lifestyle and family history questions. Blood pressure needs to be measured regularly and has no symptoms.

Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure Check runs from May 17 until June 14, with free health checks at Priceline Pharmacy. To find the site closest to you visit www.strokefoundation.org.au