Cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and stroke, remains one of the leading causes of death and premature death in Barnet. Knowing your blood pressure is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself.

An estimated 33,000 Barnet residents are living with undiagnosed high blood pressure, often without knowing it. High blood pressure is the biggest cause of heart attacks and strokes and is often called the "silent killer" because it usually has no symptoms.

The London Million Hearts and Minds Challenge is encouraging Barnet residents to get their blood pressure checked and take simple steps to look after their heart health. 

If you're aged 40 or over, ask your local pharmacy about getting a free blood pressure check. You don't need an appointment, it only takes a few minutes, and it could help prevent serious health problems including heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. 

Getting checked is particularly important if you’re of Black African, Black Caribbean or south Asian heritage, or are self-employed or in temporary work, as you may be at higher risk of undiagnosed high blood pressure. 

Find a pharmacy that offers free blood pressure checks or find tips to protect your heart health

Visit the 'For your body' pages for more healthy lifestyle support and opportunities in Barnet.