Heart Week is Australia’s national heart health awareness week held in the first week of May each year. It provides an opportunity for the Australian public and health professionals to start a conversation about heart health and take positive steps to reduce their heart disease risk.
Do you know your blood pressure?
High blood pressure is a leading risk factor for heart disease.
The only way to find out if you have high blood pressure is to have it checked regularly, even if you’re feeling well and healthy. Everyone aged 18 and over should have their blood pressure measured at least once every two years.
Blood pressure can be measured at home using a validated machine, at a pharmacy via a SiSu Health Station , or by a doctor or nurse during your next doctor’s appointment.
Time for a Heart Health Check?
A Heart Health Check is a 30-minute check-up with your GP and Nurse to assess your risk of having a heart attack or stroke in the next five years.
As part of the check, your doctor will ask you about your lifestyle, medical and family health history. They will also check your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar levels and do an electrocardiogram.
Your GP will use this information to estimate your risk of a heart attack or stroke. More importantly, they will discuss the steps you can take to lower your risk.
If you are 30 and over, you can have a Heart Health Check with your GP that is subsidised by Medicare once per year. Please contact the practice on 44214422 to schedule an appointment to discuss this.
