In News

Follow this topic

Bookmark

Record learning outcomes

Tesco Pharmacy has teamed up with the British Heart Foundation to offer more than 50,000 blood pressure check appointments to football fans every week across its 350 Tesco pharmacies.

Tom Lye, category director for health and wellness at Tesco, said: "With all the drama of VAR and penalties, this summer’s football will inevitably set pulses racing right across the UK – so there’s no better time to check on your heart health.

“While the football is on, we’ve got tens of thousands of free blood pressure checks available every week, making it easy for fans to keep one eye on their health and another on the football.” 

Professor Bryan Williams OBE, British Heart Foundation chief scientific and medical officer, said: “High blood pressure is often called the ‘silent killer’ because it usually has no symptoms, meaning many people are unaware they are living with this dangerous condition. But over time, untreated high blood pressure can quietly damage your blood vessels, increasing your risk of life‑changing conditions like heart attacks and strokes. 

“That’s why knowing your numbers is so important. A simple blood pressure check can be the first step to protecting your heart - it’s a chance to get ahead of the game. This summer, we’re encouraging people to take advantage of these checks; it could be a vital moment that helps you understand your risk and take steps to stay well for longer.” 

It’s estimated that up to 8 million people are living with undiagnosed or uncontrolled high blood pressure.