Did you know that one in four adults have high blood pressure? The Isle of Wight council is offering residents the chance to borrow a blood pressure monitor from one of six local libraries across the Island, free of charge.
The free to loan monitors are available to Island residents over the age of 18-years-old who hold a valid library membership. If you are not a member of your local library it takes just a few minutes on arrival, just bring along a photo ID.
Where to borrow from
The monitors are available from the following libraries during their usual opening hours:
- Lord Louis Library, Newport
- Cowes Library
- Ventnor Library
- Sandown Library
- Ryde Library
- Freshwater Library
Each library will initially have six monitors which will be available on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.
Andre: Every adult should know their blood pressure
Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health, commented,
“High blood pressure is often symptomless and can affect anyone.
“Using a blood pressure monitor is really straightforward and being able to borrow one for up to 14 days from your local library is allowing more Islanders to have access to help manage their own health and wellbeing.
“Every adult should know their blood pressure in the same way they know their height and weight and be able to regularly have access to a monitor. I fully support this scheme.”
Bryant: High blood pressure can lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease and dementia
Simon Bryant, Director of Public Health for the Isle of Wight added,
“We are really pleased to be able to offer this service to Island residents.
“It is important to ‘know your numbers’ as high blood pressure can lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease and dementia.”
What to expect
When borrowing a blood pressure monitor you will also receive a leaflet explaining what high blood pressure is as well as a sheet to record your readings twice a day for a week.
If you need further assistance understanding your readings, your local pharmacy should be able to offer guidance. If you are concerned about your blood pressure, please contact a health professional.
Find out more information on blood pressure at Blood Pressure UK.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
