Bromley Council and Bromley Football Club have joined forces to help residents take simple, practical steps towards better heart health.
The ‘Give Your Heart Some Support’ campaign will help residents learn more about NHS Health Checks, blood pressure, the risk of type 2 diabetes and easy ways to become more active.
Heart and circulation problems do not always have clear warning signs. High blood pressure, for example, often has no symptoms. The only way to know if your blood pressure is high is to have it checked.
Residents aged 40 to 74 may be eligible for a free NHS Health Check if they do not already have certain health conditions. The check looks at the health of the heart and blood vessels. It can help spot a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and type 2 diabetes.
Eligible residents are usually invited for a check through their GP practice. People can also contact their practice to ask whether they qualify.
Dr. Nada Lemic, Director of Public Health at Bromley Council said, “Your heart works hard for you every day, and looking after it can be simpler than you might think.
“You could start by having your blood pressure checked, taking up an NHS Health Check invitation, or adding a little more movement to your day. You do not have to change everything at once. Small steps that work for you can build into lasting habits.
“We are pleased to be working with Bromley Football Club to help more people across the borough give their heart some support.”
Mick Livesey, Chief Revenue Officer at Bromley Football Club said, “Football brings people together, and we want to use that connection to support the health of our community.
“Better heart health is not only achievable for our players or people who are already active. Everyone can take a positive step, whether that is going for a walk, checking their blood pressure or finding out if they can have an NHS Health Check.
“We are proud to support Bromley Council in encouraging supporters and residents to make their next move for better heart health.”
The campaign focuses on four straightforward ways to support your heart:
• Get checked: Find out if you are eligible for a free NHS Health Check.
• Know your numbers: Have your blood pressure checked.
• Know your risk: Learn about type 2 diabetes and the factors that can affect your heart.
• Keep moving: Choose enjoyable and manageable ways to be more active.
Adults are advised to aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week. However, people who are less active can begin with smaller amounts and build up over time.
Walking, cycling, dancing, gardening, swimming and playing sport can all count. Even short periods of activity can be a useful place to start.
For information, advice and local support, visit: www.bromley.gov.uk/HeartHealth
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• For media enquiries, please contact Liam Scoble in Public Affairs, on 020 8313 4688 or email liam.scoble@bromley.gov.uk