High blood pressure or hypertension is often called the ‘silent killer’ because there are rarely any symptoms or obvious warning signs.
This is why more than 50 per cent of people with high blood pressure are unaware of their condition.
MediRite Pharmacies, located in selected Shoprite and Checkers supermarkets, will be offering free blood pressure tests on February 16 in support of Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Day.
“While high blood pressure or hypertension might not have symptoms of its own, it can cause other potentially fatal conditions and is one of the most common risk factors for heart attacks, stroke and kidney disease in the South African population,” says Pamela Naidoo, CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation SA.
“Early detection and appropriate medical treatment can limit damage and further complications, often saving lives.”
* From this month, MediRite Pharmacies are also offering free health screenings to senior citizens aged 60 and older on the first Wednesday of every month. The check-ups include blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure and body mass index (BMI) tests.
