YOUR readers have a chance to find out their most vital statistic - their blood pressure numbers.

Every year the Blood Pressure Association, of which I am a member, runs a high profile national blood pressure testing week as part of its ongoing Know Your Numbers! campaign.

The event sees thousands of specially set up "pressure stations" offering information and blood pressure checks to the public at locations including health centres, supermarkets, pharmacies and health clubs.

This year it runs from September 13-19.

High blood pressure is serious - it is a major cause of heart disease and strokes - but it can be treated and sometimes prevented.

The BPA is urging everyone to know their up-to-date blood pressure levels - if you can't pop along to a pressure station there are many places where you can get your blood pressure checked - many pharmacies, health clubs and workplaces (with an occupational health department) offer checks all year round.

As well as knowing your numbers there are five simple steps we can all take to beat the pressure: cut down on salt, eat more fruit and vegetables, take regular exercise, stick to a healthy diet and keep alcohol intake to recommended limits.

To find out more about the campaign and for details of locations of pressure stations log on to www.bpassoc.org.uk. You can also keep an eye on this paper for details of any local pressure stations.

Selected branches of Lloyds, Asda and Moss pharmacies are also taking part.

Philip O'Brien,

The Village,

Earswick,

York.

Updated: 10:59 Thursday, September 09, 2004