Tesco today (February 19) announced the launch of “a free NHS blood pressure check” at its in-store pharmacies to “help get Britain clued up about their blood pressure”.
“Tesco and British Heart foundation want to spread the word that a quick and easy check could help detect cases of undiagnosed high blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes,” it said.
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The supermarket “is reminding the public about the importance of quick, potentially life-saving blood pressure checks” which are available to customers “while doing a weekly shop, without needing an appointment”, it added.
According to a survey carried out by Tesco, people “feel they don’t have the time or understanding of blood pressure checks” with 15% of adults saying that “lack of time” is the main reason they don’t get it checked.
NHS blood pressure checks are usually only free for people aged 40-years and over, unless there is a recognised family history of high blood pressure.
“Easy to treat”
Tesco pharmacy services manager Jonathon Bridgett said that “we know how important it is for people to get their blood pressure checked... [and] many people don’t realise just how convenient and quick a free check in a Tesco pharmacy can be, especially without the need for an appointment”.
And senior cardiac nurse at British Heart Foundation Emily McGrath said that “high blood pressure is often easy to treat but left undiagnosed it can cause serious illness”.
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“Around half of all heart attacks and strokes in the UK are associated with hypertension, which often doesn’t have any symptoms,” she added.
“It is crucial to get your blood pressure checked – the test is quick and easy to do. Taking ten minutes out of your day while doing your weekly shop could end up saving your life,” she said.
“Health zone”
It comes as Tesco previously announced it was offering up to half a million free blood pressure checks in February 2023.
The supermarket worked with British Heart Foundation at the time to “encourage more people to routinely check their blood pressure for free at the supermarket’s network of in-store pharmacies”.
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Meanwhile, Tesco announced the launch of a new “dedicated health zone” in November to expand its pharmacy services and provide customers with “easy and convenient” healthcare while they shop”.
The supermarket chain has partnered with healthcare companies including Bupa and Haleon to provide services such as virtual GP appointments and weight management support.
