Unnecessary heart attacks and strokes could be avoided if people in Dorset got regular blood pressure checks, according to the NHS.

It is estimated over 200,000 people in Dorset are affected by high blood pressure or Hypertension, however only around 50% of those are getting tested regularly.

If this number increased to 80% the data shows that 81 heart attacks and over 100 strokes could be avoided.

As part of the annual 'Know Your Numbers' campaign, GPs and healthcare professionals are urging people across the county to check their blood pressure.

Dr Blair Millar, GP and lead for Dorset on Hypertension Dr Blair Millar, said everyone can benefit from getting tested.

He said “With so many people affected by high blood pressure and not knowing, it is important to test regularly and get help if you need it.

“Keep a record of your blood pressure. High blood pressure is considered to be 140/90 or higher so if your numbers are high, you should inform your GP right away.”

High blood pressure can lead to a number of health problems including strokes, heart disease, kidney disease, vascular dementia, and diabetes.

Community pharmacies across Dorset are now offering blood pressure checks to people who are 40 years and over.

This new service has the potential to increase the detection of high blood pressure in the local population and positively impact on health inequalities, especially those who do not routinely see their GP or use other NHS services.

Almost 70% of the community pharmacies across Dorset are providing this service and people will be able to freely access the checks.

Many GP practices across Dorset are also offering a home measuring service, BP@home.

Louise Bell, Advanced Nurse Practitioner at the Bridges Medical Practice in Weymouth, Digital Nursing Fellow and BP@Home Lead, said: “There has been a significant reduction in high blood pressure from hypertensive patients in Dorset since using the app and we have had a 45% reduction in patient appointments relating to blood pressure, saving time for both them and their GP.

“We know that this can make a real difference to people’s lives and it has been positively received by patients.

"Patients using the app have told us that using the app has made them take more notice and have a better understanding of their blood pressure and that they are seeing improvements.”

For a map of your nearest enrolled community pharmacy visit bit.ly/KYNDorset.