News

Nearly Two-Thirds of People Aged 30-50 Could be Living with Undiagnosed Blood Pressure – warns leading charity
3 September 2023

Blood Pressure UK is urging ALL adults (of ALL ages) to make the time to check their blood pressure – ideally with a home blood pressure monitor as it’s the easiest way to find out your blood pressure numbers.

Save the date and join us for Know Your Numbers! Week 2023
4 August 2023

We’re gearing up to get the Nation checking their blood pressure and we’d love for you to take part. This year's campaign will take place from 4-10 September.

Planks and wall sits best exercise for lowering blood pressure, study says
2 August 2023

Planks and wall sits best exercise for lowering blood pressure, study says

More older adults should be checking blood pressure at home
2 August 2023

A new study has shed light on how many people check their own blood pressure, and what makes them more likely to do so. Less than half of people aged 50 to 80 who take blood pressure medications or have a health condition that requires blood pressure control regularly check their own blood pressure.

Treating high blood pressure in your 30s may help prevent dementia in later life
29 June 2023

Having high blood pressure in your 30s is associated with worse brain health around the age of 75, according to new research.

New GP assistants will offer blood pressure checks
29 June 2023

In response to GPs experiencing record demand, a new NHS initiative aims to boost the GP workforce and allow doctors to see more patients over winter. More than one thousand GP assistants will be recruited to do blood pressure checks, as well as heart rate and blood tests.

More than 400,000 pharmacy blood pressure checks were carried out in 10 months
29 June 2023

More than 400,000 blood pressure checks were carried out by community pharmacy over a 10-month period, the pharmacy minister, Neil O’Brien, has revealed.

Make your repeat prescriptions hassle-free (LloydsDirect)
29 June 2023

As taking your medicines is a key part of keeping your blood pressure under control, prescriptions can be a source of stress. LloydsDirect can make your life easier by helping you with all things NHS repeat prescriptions.

High blood pressure is the nation’s third most common health concern
29 June 2023

Some of the most pressing health concerns of the nation have been revealed by NHS data regarding its most popular web pages for medical conditions - High blood pressure is the nation’s third most common health concern

Kinetik Wellbeing - Introducing "My Blood Pressure": Your Personalised Blood Pressure Companion
29 June 2023

Kinetik Wellbeing, the experts in home-use medical devices, and Blood Pressure UK, the leading blood pressure charity, have come together to create a truly personalised Blood Pressure management service. Get ready to meet "My Blood Pressure," launching in September 2023.

Share the Pressure
13 June 2023

People from the Black African and Caribbean community are more likely to develop high blood pressure but are  they are less likely to get the support they need to manage their condition.

15 May 2023

To coincide with this year's Salt Awareness Week (15th - 21st May), Season With Sense^TM run by our corporate partner LoSalt is delighted to share information about their UK-wide campaign - the ‘Stick to Six Challenge’.

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.

Welcome March 23
28 March 2023

Welcome March 23

From Phil Pyatt, Chief Executive Officer 

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.