Duncan Robertson, who is the chief paramedic at South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SCAS) is leading calls for people across Hampshire and the Thames Valley to get a blood pressure check.
The call comes following the latest figures released by NHS Digital that showed last year, the number of people searching the NHS website for advice on high blood pressure surged to over two million visits – a 36% increase on 2024.
High blood pressure rocketed from the 30th most visited health condition on the NHS website in 2024 to the second most visited in 2025.
Duncan said: “High blood pressure significantly increases your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Most people with high blood pressure have no symptoms. It is estimated that there are over four million people in England living with undiagnosed high blood pressure.”
“The good news is that for people diagnosed with high blood pressure, the NHS provides the advice and treatment that enable a healthier future – high blood pressure can be easily managed through medication and lifestyle changes.”
“That’s why I want to let our local population know that if you’re aged 40 or over and don’t know your blood pressure numbers, there are several free and convenient ways to get a check.”
One of the quickest and easiest ways to check your blood pressure numbers is at your local pharmacy. This is a free, walk-in service where a highly skilled healthcare professional will do a check and advise you on the result.
You can find your nearest pharmacy that offers this service online here: Find a pharmacy that offers free blood pressure checks – NHS
If you’re aged between 40 and 74, you may also be invited for a free NHS Health Check every five years. This is a more in-depth, well-person check that includes measuring your blood pressure, and is offered by GP practices and local councils.
You can find out more about the free NHS Health Check here: NHS Health Check – NHS
Blood pressure monitors can also be purchased for home use. If you’re testing your blood pressure at home, you should do so at a time when you are relaxed, well hydrated and well rested. You should also avoid having caffeine, alcohol or recreational drugs prior to the check.
A healthy lifestyle can treat and prevent many people developing high blood pressure. This includes eating a healthy, balanced diet that is low in added salt, exercising regularly building up to at least 150 minutes a week, and losing weight if you’re overweight.
To find out more about blood pressure, visit the NHS website: High blood pressure – NHS
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