Tesco and British Heart Foundation are reminding people across the UK to prioritise their heart health, alongside getting ready for the upcoming football action, with England potentially on the road to glory.
David Seaman, the ex-England goalkeeper nicknamed ‘Safe Hands’, is encouraging football fans across the UK to put their heart health first by popping to their local Tesco Pharmacy for a free blood pressure check.
The supermarket has teamed up with the British Heart Foundation to offer more than 50,000 blood pressure check appointments per week across over 350 Tesco Pharmacies so fans can get themselves checked as they shop for their big match essentials.
The quick and simple test that only takes five minutes, could help spot potential problems early. In the UK, it’s estimated that up to 8 million people are living with undiagnosed or uncontrolled high blood pressure.*
David Seaman said: “As an ambassador for British Heart Foundation, I’m delighted to be supporting this campaign, which makes it quick and easy for people to get their blood pressure checked while they’re out doing their shopping. High blood pressure is something I take very seriously personally, and I make sure I have regular check-ups to stay on the safe side.
“The next time you’re in store, take five minutes to pop into the pharmacy and get yours checked too.”
Tom Lye, Category Director for Health and Wellness at Tesco, said: “The summer of football has definitely lived up to expectations and raised heart rates for England fans across the country – so there’s no better time to check on your heart health.
“Just as English football was once in the Safe Hands of renowned keeper David Seaman, customers can trust the safe hands of our pharmacists who are there for our customers at over 350 Tesco Pharmacies, no matter the score. With tens of thousands of free, convenient blood pressure checks available every week, we’re making it easy for fans to keep an eye on their health and the football.”
High blood pressure is one of the biggest risk factors for heart attacks and strokes, yet millions of people across the UK are thought to be living with the condition without realising. The only way to find out is to get tested.
Tesco Pharmacy offers free blood pressure checks in stores, delivered by trained pharmacy teams in private consultation rooms, with no need for an appointment.
Professor Bryan Williams OBE, British Heart Foundation Chief Scientific and Medical Officer, said:
“High blood pressure is dangerous because it rarely causes noticeable symptoms, leaving many people unaware that they have the condition. Left untreated, it can gradually damage blood vessels and place you at greater risk of serious illness such as a heart attack or stroke.
“That’s why it’s so important to know your blood pressure. A quick and simple check can help you get on the front foot with your heart health and identify any risks early. This summer, we’re encouraging everyone to take a moment to get their blood pressure checked – it could make a big difference to your long-term health.”!¬
