Media Release: 7 September 2008
Free Blood Pressure checks for Awareness Week
The Stroke Foundation of New Zealand and Lions International have teamed up to try and keep New Zealanders in better
health by increasing awareness of blood pressure.
Together they urge New Zealanders to have a blood pressure check and not become another victim of New Zealand’s second
single largest killer. Called “Take the Pressure off Stroke”, this Stroke Awareness Week (8-14 September) has a specific
focus on knowing and controlling your blood pressure, because controlling blood pressure is often the best way of
preventing stroke and living a healthier life.
According to Stroke Foundation CEO, Mark Vivian: “We see this as a great opportunity to help New Zealanders have greater
control over their health. Blood pressure is often the biggest contributor to strokes in New Zealand, and too many New
Zealanders don’t know their blood pressure.”
Research shows that Maori, Pacific Island and some Asian communities are in greater danger of having stroke at a younger
age compared to New Zealanders of European origin. According to Mr Vivian: “The bottom line is – know your blood
pressure, and if it needs management, do so immediately. It could make all the difference to your future quality and
length of life.”
To find a free blood pressure testing site near you, go to www.stroke.org.nz to see the latest list of sites. Caption:
Mark Vivian, NZ Stroke Foundation CEO.
ENDS