Find the latest news and research stories from the world of high blood pressure.
Some are ground-breaking and some are just plain strange, but they’re always interesting. Here you can read what we think of them. Plus, stay up to date with Blood Pressure UK news releases, campaigns and opportunities.
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To see older stories (before July 2019), see our News Archive.
Blood pressure news
fishcakes with tartate sauce
29 March 2023
Try this new recipe from LoSalt for the start of Spring.
Prep: 20 minutes plus chilling
Cook: 15 minutes
Serves 4
Treating through the ear
29 March 2023
Researchers hope that a new electrical stimulator that’s worn on the ear for a few hours a day could help to lower high blood pressure. The device can influence control of the heart and cardiovascular system via the vagus nerve, an imbalance of which can contribute to high blood pressure.
Statins
28 March 2023
Millions of people at risk of having a heart attack and stroke may be given the choice of whether they’d like to take statins under new guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice). Until now, only people with a 10% or higher risk of having a heart attack or stroke within 10 years are routinely offered a statin to help reduce their risk.
Dip in treatment
28 March 2023
Almost half a million people might have missed out on starting treatment to lower their blood pressure during the first year of the pandemic, which could lead to thousands more cardiovascular events, according to researchers.
Welcome Morven Lean
28 March 2023
We’re really excited to welcome our newest trustee, Morven Lean. Morven heads up Alzheimer’s Society’s strategic Change team, and hopes to use her fundraising and community engagement expertise to support the charity to grow.
To caffeinate or not to caffeinate?
28 March 2023
A recent study using the data of 18,000 people over almost 20 years has found that drinking two or more cups of coffee per day can increase the risk of death in people with severe high blood pressure. But the researchers found coffee made no difference to the risk of death in people with normal blood pressure.
Funds for Blood Pressure UK
28 March 2023
Fundraising is the cornerstone of any successful charity, and Blood Pressure UK is no exception. There are tonnes of ways to get involved and help us save lives in a way that fits around your lifestyle, time commitment and hobbies.
A new test
28 March 2023
One cause of hypertension is when the adrenal glands produce too much of a hormone called aldosterone. Up to now, there has only been one test for this, and it has several limitations. But now, doctors have tested a new type of test that uses a radioactive dye to find out which patients have hypertension caused by a benign tumour that secretes too much of this hormone.
Can't see GP
28 March 2023
Many people are struggling to make GP appointments at the moment. If you can’t get through to you GP or arrange an appointment, but need to speak to a medical professional, there are other options. Depending on the severity of your issue – you can drop into your local pharmacy for advice, call 111 or another helpline, or register with your GP online.
Congratulations Colin and Kate
20 October 2022
Partners Colin and Kate ran the London Marathon for Blood Pressure UK in a ‘real experience you don’t get anywhere else’
Measure. Modify. Manage.
20 October 2022
Know Your Numbers! Week takes on high blood pressure in 2022
Do you live in the East of England?
20 October 2022
Take this 10-minute Blood Pressure Survey to improve patient care and raise funds for Blood Pressure UK
Drink water to forward blood pressure research
20 October 2022
If you have raised blood pressure, take part to support Oxford Brookes' research and earn Amazon vouchers
What are the future risks for younger people with high blood pressure?
20 October 2022
Professor Simon Conroy, Consultant Geriatrician, invites you to share your view to support his research exploring how different factors accumulated over a lifetime can affect health in later life.
Free support at your pharmacy
20 October 2022
We take a look at the new services that are available at pharmacies
Pharmacy blood pressure checks could save 4,400 lives
20 October 2022
Free checks for over 40s are expected to save twice as many lives as predicted a year ago
Blood pressure medication works at any time of day
20 October 2022
Blood pressure lowering medicines work equally well whether you take them in the morning or evening, according to new research.
Beating blood pressure in the South East
20 October 2022
Dr Mohit Sharma is Consultant in Healthcare Public Health, NHS England South East. He leads on cardiovascular disease prevention in the South East of England. He explains why awareness among both health professionals and communities is key to tackling high blood pressure post-pandemic.
We urge all adults to check their blood pressure, ideally with a home blood pressure monitor and, in tandem, reduce their salt intake.
6 September 2022
56% of UK Population Could be Living with Undiagnosed High Blood Pressure – According to NEW Consumer Poll
Measure. Modify. Manage.
15 August 2022
Join us for Know Your Numbers! Week 2022
Family rallies to raise awareness of high blood pressure
15 August 2022
The family and friends of Jeff Heyes get active in their communities in his memory
Come on Colin!
15 August 2022
Our marathon runner gets ready for the big day, even though he’s ‘not a natural’
Home monitoring, all-round benefits
15 August 2022
The superintendent Pharmacist at LloydsDirect explains why home blood pressure monitoring can be the key to a longer, healthier life
AIM HY to improve your blood pressure control
15 August 2022
Researchers at Kings College London invite you to take part in the AIM HY blood pressure study
Meet the experts: Dr Shahed Ahmed
15 August 2022
Dr Shahed Ahmad is National Clinical Director for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention at NHS England and NHS Improvement. He talks to us about how he’s working to tackle high blood pressure and save as many lives as possible.
Adding salt at the table could shorten your life
15 August 2022
New research suggests that always seasoning your meals could take two years off your life
Blood pressure checks to appear on the high street
15 August 2022
Blood pressure checks are set to appear in betting shops and beyond as NHS England replaces clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) with Integrated care systems (ICSs)
Stay on top of your blood pressure medicines with LloydsDirect
21 April 2022
See how switching to online prescriptions can save you time and effort, so you can focus on leading a healthy lifestyle
Cuff size matters
21 April 2022
A new study has shown the importance of choosing the right size cuff for measuring your blood pressure
Eating a variety of protein-rich foods may help prevent high blood pressure
20 April 2022
New Chinese study suggests that choosing proteins from a range of sources – as opposed to one or two – could benefit your heart health
Meal deals saltier than Big Mac and fries
20 April 2022
No such thing as a free lunch, and it’s our health that pays the price
Children can help lower their family’s salt intake
20 April 2022
New research from China shows children can help their families to eat less salt through app-based learning, lowering their blood pressure with it
Long term paracetamol use has implications for heart health
20 April 2022
Data from two new studies adds to concerns over paracetamol and the risk of heart attacks and strokes
Intensive blood pressure treatment might improve blood flow in the brain
20 April 2022
Results from the SPRINT MIND trial show that rather than impairing blood flow, a lower blood pressure target might improve it
More than a pick-me-up
20 April 2022
Drinking ground coffee could do more than help you stay awake, it could improve your heart health too, according to new research
Mandatory salt reduction in South Africa appears to be working
18 February 2022
Early evidence suggests that mandatory salt reduction targets are lowering the country’s salt intake, with implications for disease prevention worldwide
Take part in new exercise research
14 February 2022
Support Ben Wright in his PhD research to find out how static exercises can improve the health of blood vessels and lower blood pressure
Optimising blood pressure medicines saves lives
14 February 2022
New East London study shows filling gaps in blood pressure care prevents heart attacks and strokes, saving millions in hospital costs
Scan, swipe, swap
14 February 2022
The easy-to-use app that helps you make simple swaps for healthier foods
The lunchtime favourite that’s raising your blood pressure
14 February 2022
New research finds that two thirds of sliced meats are high in salt, and a quarter are saltier than seawater
Shake the salt habit
14 February 2022
Save the date for Salt Awareness Week and help persuade the food industry to shake their salt habit
Run the 2022 London Marathon for Blood Pressure UK
13 February 2022
Put the spring back in your step with a place at the TCS London Marathon this October
Thank you for taking part in Know Your Numbers! Week 2021
13 October 2021
We made this the year of home monitoring to take on the forgotten pandemic
Learn online, with Issues & Answers Live
12 October 2021
Primary Care launch their new online learning platform and conference series for health professionals
High street pharmacies to roll out free blood pressure checks
11 October 2021
Pharmacies across England will offer free checks to over 40s thanks to a deal with the NHS
Berries, bacteria and blood pressure – what’s the link?
10 October 2021
Berries, red wine, apples and pears could help lower blood pressure and the effects depend on your gut bacteria, according to new research
‘Quadpills’ for high blood pressure more effective than one medicine alone
10 October 2021
Combination pills could be a “new paradigm” for treating high blood pressure around the world
WHF publish new roadmap for hypertension
10 October 2021
The WHF have created a new infographic for patients and roadmap for professionals, providing practical advice for tackling high blood pressure
Potassium-based salt substitute lowers the risk of strokes and heart attacks
10 October 2021
Major new study shows swapping regular salt for a potassium-based salt substitute lowers the risk of strokes and heart attacks
Share The Pressure
10 October 2021
A new pilot project shows that online training and an updated Heart Age tool can help health professionals and patients share decision-making to lower blood pressure.
WHO releases new blood pressure guidelines as number untreated reaches 720million
10 October 2021
The WHO have updated their treatment guidelines for the first time in 20 years as the number with high blood pressure worldwide doubles
We urge all adults to check their blood pressure as routine and in tandem, reduce their salt intake
7 September 2021
Apathy is the Silent Killer as Nearly 40% of UK Adults Ignore Need to Check Blood Pressure Which Could Prevent 136,000 Related Cardiovascular Diseases
Au revoir to Katharine and hello to our new CEO, Phil
13 August 2021
After more than eight years, our CEO Katharine is stepping down and we are joined by our new CEO, Phil Pyatt. Hear from Katharine and Phil as they pass the torch.
Take part in Know Your Numbers! Week 2021
13 August 2021
Let’s make this the year of home monitoring, register to take part by the end of August
Try out a new Virtual Blood Pressure Coaching app
13 August 2021
A chance to take part in a pilot programme coaching you to better blood pressure control
Kickstart your health this summer
12 August 2021
PHE launch this summer’s Better Health campaign, helping you to make simple changes to reach a healthier weight
The National Food Strategy has arrived
12 August 2021
Henry Dimbleby’s independent review of the UK’s food system outlines a strategy to protect the health of our bodies and our planet
Mildly-raised blood pressure could lead to heart attacks in young and middle-aged women
12 August 2021
A study from Norway has shown that blood pressure over 130/80mmHg has a greater effect on the risk of heart attack and angina than it does in men
Issues & Answers live 2021
12 August 2021
Primary Care Issues & Answers is a unique new digital learning platform for the community of healthcare professionals who deal with millions of patients in primary care.
Blood pressure experts put salt ‘controversy’ to bed
12 August 2021
Leading researchers in salt and blood pressure refute misleading reports that aim to cast doubt on the evidence
Join our Pressure Panel
12 August 2021
Take a seat on our patient panel to help influence blood pressure care
New data supports a lower blood pressure target
12 August 2021
Additional data for 2016’s landmark SPRINT trial shows a blood pressure target of 120mmHg rather than 140mmHg prevents more heart attacks and strokes
OUTREACH study and trial
15 July 2021
Are your blood pressure tablets working? Taking part in the OUTREACH study may help you or someone you know.
Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer! World Hypertension Day (WHD) 2021
18 June 2021
Accuracy in BP Measurement and Effective Hypertension Control Promoted on World Hypertension Day, May 17th
Sleeves up, risk down: May Measurement Month Returns in 2021
7 April 2021
Roll your sleeves up and get your blood pressure tested as part of the world’s largest blood pressure screening campaign
Take part in new research from Imperial College London
6 April 2021
Researchers from ICL are developing a tool to help patients share feedback on medical devices they use at home so that manufacturers can improve them further. Can you take part?
CVD prevention packs are "incredibly important tools for saving lives"
5 April 2021
If you are a health professional, order your free CVD prevention pack from PHE to see the progress made and opportunities for your STP or general practice
Help save lives with the relaunched Act F.A.S.T. campaign
4 April 2021
The Act F.A.S.T. campaign returns, urging people to call 999 immediately at any sign of a stroke – can you help spread the message?
Salt Awareness Week 2021 celebrates home cooking
3 April 2021
This year Action on Salt organised their 21st Salt Awareness Week celebrating home cooking and practical ways to enjoy food with less salt
The healthy-looking snacks that are sabotaging our health
2 April 2021
Corn and pulse-based snacks with a ‘health halo’ of nutritional claims are saltier than seawater
High blood pressure linked to changes in brain metabolism in mid-life
1 April 2021
New research shows that keeping blood pressure under control throughout life could help protect brain health
Pandemic could cause thousands of extra strokes and heart attacks [blog]
30 March 2021
New think tank research shows that without Government intervention the pandemic could lead to an extra 12,000 heart attacks and strokes in England in the next five years due to loss of routine medical care
Blood pressure, the menopause and HRT
8 February 2021
We caught up with GP and menopause specialist Dr Louise Newson on the changes to your hormones that happen during the menopause and how HRT could help – even if you have high blood pressure
Home monitoring combined with online support lowers blood pressure
8 February 2021
A new study from leading experts has found that home blood pressure monitoring combined with online support helps to lower blood pressure
Take part in a trial for a new high blood pressure treatment
8 February 2021
Researchers are investigating a new drug to lower blood pressure, could you take part?
Share your healthy recipes and cooking tips from around the world
8 February 2021
Take part in our video compilation to share blood pressure-friendly recipes and healthy eating tips from your own cuisine
More flavour, less salt
8 February 2021
Get cooking the healthy way for this year’s Salt Awareness Week
Kickstart your health with Public Health England’s Better Health campaign
8 February 2021
PHE launch new resources for a healthier lifestyle after survey shows seven in 10 adults are motivated to get healthier in 2021
Warburtons crumpets fail to put health of customers first
8 February 2021
A new report reveals that Warburtons are the worst offender when it comes to salt in crumpets
Sue’s two-week meal plan and shopping list
8 February 2021
Blood Pressure UK supporter (and our CEO’s Mum) Sue Jenner shares her meal-planning tips and shopping list for healthy eating for less in lockdown
Season with Sense – a campaign for lower salt and better health
8 February 2021
LoSalt have launched a new public awareness campaign for greater knowledge and understanding around salt and health
"That was the hardest thing I’ve ever done"
7 January 2021
Steve completes his ten-Marathon walk for Blood Pressure UK after losing his sight to high blood pressure
Covid-19 advice for people with high blood pressure
6 January 2021
Coronavirus (COVID-19) advice for people with high blood pressure, including those taking blood pressure medicines
20 Years of Blood Pressure UK
6 January 2021
A message from our Chairman, Professor Graham MacGregor CBE, in celebration of our 20th anniversary
I hope someone will think, ‘if he can do it, I can do it’
15 December 2020
Steve Rebus lost his sight at the age of just 24 due to high blood pressure, now he’s walking 250 miles during advent to raise money and awareness for Blood Pressure UK
Know Your Numbers! Week goes online for 2020
20 October 2020
This year’s Know Your Numbers! Week was a little different to usual, and we got the nation checking their blood pressure at home
Alcohol raises blood pressure in people with Type 2 Diabetes
19 October 2020
New research shows that even drinking moderate amounts of alcohol is associated with high blood pressure in people with Type 2 Diabetes
Celebrate World Hypertension Day on October 17th
15 October 2020
Join us in promoting better blood pressure control for a long and healthy life
Does this animation help you understand your medicines?
14 October 2020
Take part in a simple study from the Glasgow School of Art and Glasgow University to test out an imaginative new blood pressure animation
Focussing on the future
9 October 2020
The results of our member’s survey are in, and we’re incredibly grateful for your ideas and insights
Public Health England finally set new salt reduction targets
9 October 2020
PHE have announced new salt reduction targets for food manufacturers across a range of products, but are they enough to lower our salt intakes?
COVID-19 and high blood pressure
30 September 2020
What does coronavirus mean for people with high blood pressure? Our Hypertension Nurse Specialist, Nirmala, answers your questions
The future of salt reduction and lowering population blood pressure
30 September 2020
UK's leading salt reduction policy in jeopardy following closure of Public Health England, which could result in a potential rise in population blood pressure
We call for home blood pressure monitors on prescription for Know Your Numbers! Week 2020
30 September 2020
Charity Calls for Home Blood Pressure Monitors to be Available on Prescription – a ‘Game Changer’ to Take the Pressure off the NHS and Save Lives
Staying healthy while staying home
7 September 2020
While our lifestyles are different to usual, now’s the time to take extra care with your health. We’ve put together these ideas to help
Register to take part in Know Your Numbers! Week 2020
14 August 2020
It’s time to register to become a Pressure Partner or Patient Ambassador for this year’s Know Your Numbers! Week, taking place from 7-13 September 2020
Book your place for Issues & Answers Live
13 August 2020
New realities – new solutions. The 2020 virtual conference, exhibition and networking event.
How can we support you more in future?
28 April 2020
Tell us in our Focus on the Future survey
Test out a new blood pressure app from the University of Cambridge
16 April 2020
Could you test out a new android app from your own home to help improve blood pressure care?
Major new studies show huge benefits of eating less salt
12 April 2020
Two evidence reviews clearly demonstrate that a stricter salt reduction strategy would lower blood pressure and prevent heart attacks, strokes and other diseases
Would you like to test our new website?
12 April 2020
Our new website is almost ready to go live, can you help us test it out?
Announcing the all new, highly interactive conference for primary care professionals
12 April 2020
Register now for the 2020 Issues & Answers in Primary Care Today conference – CVplus: Because CVD is never alone
“It ain’t doing your health or your wallet any good”
12 April 2020
We featured on BBC 2’s Trust me I’m a doctor in a particularly salty episode
Our comment on the 2018-29 NDNS report for salt intakes in England
26 March 2020
Blood Pressure UK comments on Public Health England’s latest report on salt intakes in adults
Response to Public Health England’s Proposed Salt Targets
26 March 2020
Blood Pressure UK response to the 2023 Salt Reduction Targets
Salt Awareness Week 2020
10 March 2020
‘Healthy’ plant based meals drowning in salt as Action on Salt calls for Government to get tough on the eating out sector
Good sleep could help lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes
2 February 2020
New research based on data from the UK biobank suggests a role of sleep in good heart health
Even a little running protects you from heart disease and cancer death
2 February 2020
This winter, two new studies suggest a positive effect of running on heart health.
Lower blood pressure targets in adults over 80 lowers risk of heart disease
2 February 2020
Research shows that intensive blood pressure lowering in adults over 80 years old lowers the risk of heart disease but raises the risk of kidney damage
The forgotten hero of hypertension, Dr Nikolai Sergeyevich Korotkov
1 February 2020
He was a pioneer who changed the face of medicine but was almost forgotten to history. We share the story of this unsung hero, Dr Nikolai Sergeyevich Korotkov, 1874-1920
Win an Arsenal FC Home Shirt
31 January 2020
For your chance to take home your very own Arsenal Shirt, simply tell us your favourite fitness or healthy living tip by the end of March
Astonishing amounts of salt in bacon exposed
31 January 2020
Campaigners say “enough is enough” as survey reveals two rashers of bacon can contain as much salt as eight packets of crisps
Get ready for Salt Awareness Week 2020
31 January 2020
Salt Awareness Week (9-15th March 2020) is fast approaching, and now more than ever we hope to have your continued support with the campaign
When is the best time to take your blood pressure medication?
23 October 2019
Day or night - when is the best time to take your blood pressure medication?
Rising level of hypertension in kids
7 October 2019
Twice as many children worldwide now have high blood pressure than they did in 2000 amid global obesity crisis
Know Your Numbers! Week 2019 takes over the airwaves
6 October 2019
We had so much support for Know Your Numbers! Week this year we almost couldn’t believe it
Please Ask the Department of Health for Better Salt Targets NOW
6 October 2019
We have the opportunity to fight for stronger commitments from the Government when it comes to preventing unnecessary deaths and disability, and we need your help!
Young adulthood emerges as a key time for good health in later life
5 October 2019
High blood pressure and cholesterol in your 20s and 30s are linked to heart attacks and strokes later on, according to new research
Polypill prevents a third of heart attacks and strokes
5 October 2019
A single tablet combining medicines for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and blood clots prevented a third of heart attacks and strokes in a new study in the Middle East
Time for a quick power nap
5 October 2019
New research shows that one or two naps a week could do wonders for your heart health – but no more than that!
New survey shows the UK is still addicted to salt
4 October 2019
New survey reveals Brits are so addicted to salt, we even add it to takeaways
Discover the latest food innovations at Food Matters Live 2019
4 October 2019
See the latest in sustainable nutrition at this year’s Food Matters Live event
NHS England launch heart health checks in pharmacies
4 October 2019
The NHS has launched a plan for high street pharmacies to offer free blood pressure checks to customers to prevent heart disease and stroke
Know Your Numbers! Week 2019 - Live well for longer
10 September 2019
Should YOU be Living Well for Longer? Blood Pressure UK Urges the ‘Missing Millions’ to Get Tested as Part of a Nationwide Campaign
The Updated NICE Guidelines Don't Go Far Enough
29 August 2019
UK health experts aim to make blood pressure medicines more available, but is it enough?
The cost of convenience
8 August 2019
Two major new studies show that ultra-processed foods are clearly linked to dying young
New evidence review supports salt reduction in diet guidelines
21 July 2019
A new research review finds that eating less salt is linked to lower death rates while vitamin supplements tend to have no effect
Heart disease and stroke deaths on the rise in younger people
21 July 2019
New figures show that while stroke and heart disease deaths are falling overall, they’re on the rise in younger people
A year of recognition for Blood Pressure UK
18 July 2019
Chairman Professor MacGregor and Trustee Professor Caulfield are recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list and supporter Feng. He becomes a Professor
Live well for longer, Know Your Numbers!
18 July 2019
This year’s Know Your Numbers! Week is all about knowing your blood pressure numbers to live a long and healthy life
Join us at Food Matters Live 2019
18 July 2019
See the latest healthy food and drinks innovations at this year’s showcase, and upgrade your nutrition knowledge with the new Food Matters Training
The surprising truth about liquorice
18 July 2019
New video by Broadcast Journalism student exposes the little-known effect of liquorice on blood pressure
Join us at the Issues & Answers conference this November
18 July 2019
Get the latest in cardiovascular disease and diabetes care at the UK’s leading primary care conference. Attendance is free for the first 200 to register.
Do you know what your blood pressure numbers mean?
When you have your blood pressure measured, you will be given two numbers, systolic (top) and diastolic (bottom). Once you know your numbers, you can use our blood pressure chart to see what they mean and if your blood pressure is in the healthy range.
Take part in Know Your Numbers! Week 2023
This year's campaign will take place from 4-10 September. It's all about knowing your blood pressure at home to feel in control, which gives you one less thing to worry about. Don't miss your chance to take part in the UK's biggest blood pressure testing and awareness event.
Blood Pressure UK membership can help to keep your blood pressure under control
Membership means you get a helping hand in looking after your blood pressure while supporting others. Over 90% of our members say that being a member of Blood Pressure UK helps them to manage and lower their blood pressure. Find out what you get as a member and how to join.
Become a member