Boots launches new blood pressure service in Wales, as around 180,000 adults could be living with undiagnosed high blood pressure in the region

Boots announces a new Private Blood Pressure Check Service available in selected stores across Wales to help customers to take control of their health

Local Boots Pharmacist Emily Reilly says the service is not only helping patients but helps to relieve GP pressure in the local area

Up to 180,000 adults in Wales could be living with undiagnosed high blood pressure

31st July 2024: Boots has launched a new Private Blood Pressure Check Service at select stores in Wales. * The Boots Private Blood Pressure Check Service** can help patients identify and take the right steps to address high blood pressure.

According to data from the British Heart Foundation, up to 180,000 people in Wales could be living with undiagnosed high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Generally, hypertension is diagnosed with a consistent blood pressure reading of 140/90mmHg or more, when taken in a clinical setting such as a pharmacy or GP surgery. It is a serious condition where the heart works consistently harder to pump blood around the body. If left untreated, it could result in circulatory diseases such as a heart attack or stroke. Currently in Wales, around 50% of heart attacks and strokes are related to high blood pressure, according to BHF.

During the appointment a specially trained Boots clinician will measure the patient’s blood pressure from both arms and thoroughly explain the results. Patients will also receive personalised advice and be provided with a leaflet detailing their blood pressure reading, along with bespoke healthy living advice including diet, exercise and weight management.

Emily Reilly, Boots Pharmacist & Store Manager Boots Newport Spytty Retail Park, said: “I am really excited to be offering this new service in my store. As a pharmacist it’s a great opportunity to help the local community and demonstrate the role that Boots can play in helping customers to take control of their health. When speaking to GPs, they are very supportive and see that we can start to relieve some pressure from them. We’re expecting this service to grow even stronger as more referrals come in.”

The Boots Blood Pressure Check Service can be easily booked online or in-store and costs £15. The service is available to adults, aged 18 and over and not suitable for pregnant women who will be eligible for a free blood pressure check as part of routine check-ups. The service is also not suitable for those with a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation or an irregular heartbeat. This is not an NHS service – some patients in England are eligible for a FREE NHS blood pressure check at their local pharmacy.

For more information visit Boots Private Hypertension Service.