NHS urges Londoners to get a free blood pressure check as city-wide heart health drive launches.
Half a million Londoners are living with high blood pressure without knowing it, significantly raising their risk of heart attack or stroke — and a free, no-appointment check at a local pharmacy could save their life.
That is the stark message from NHS England London as health leaders, community organisations and partners from across the capital gathered to launch a city-wide drive to improve Londoners’ heart health.
Every 40 minutes, a Londoner dies from a heart or circulatory condition. High blood pressure — known as the ‘silent killer’ because it causes no symptoms — is the single largest risk factor for cardiovascular deaths in the capital. Figures show that treating more people to nationally recommended targets could prevent 871 heart attacks, 1,300 strokes and 697 deaths over three years in London alone.
Professor Kevin Fenton, Regional Director of Public Health for NHS England London, said: “Cardiovascular disease continues to have a profound impact on the health of Londoners. Too many people, particularly in our most deprived and ethnically diverse communities, are living with high blood pressure without knowing it, silently facing a heightened risk of heart attack or stroke. Getting your blood pressure checked is one of the simplest and most important things you can do for your health.”
Despite most Londoners (73%) saying they would find it easy to get a check, an estimated 800,000 are still living with undetected high blood pressure. The condition is also a key driver of the life expectancy gap between London’s most and least deprived communities, with people in poorer areas more likely to experience heart attacks and strokes at a younger age.
The Mayor of London’s Health Advisor, Dr Tom Coffey, said: “High blood pressure often has no symptoms but can lead to serious heart and health problems, and exacerbate health inequalities across some communities. That’s why it’s so important for Londoners to get their blood pressure checked and get the support they need, as we build a healthier London for all.”
The summit brought together NHS and local authority partners, voluntary and community sector organisations, academic researchers and innovators — marking the start of an ambitious five-year programme to improve heart health across London. The initiative is calling on Londoners to do two simple things: find out their blood pressure and take action to keep it healthy.
Dr Tehseen Khan, GP and NHS London Clinical Advisor, said: “High blood pressure rarely causes symptoms, so many people don’t know they have it. I’d encourage every Londoner to take five minutes to get a free blood pressure check at their local pharmacy. There’s no appointment needed and it could save your life.”
Violet Lane Medical Practice is preventing heart disease through early identification and proactive management of cardiovascular risks. The practice now offers drop‑in health checks, blood pressure monitoring and blood tests to assess key risk factors, including cholesterol, kidney function and blood sugar.
Patients benefit from a Diabetes Prevention Programme, specialist diabetes reviews, a lipid management project and group clinics for chronic kidney disease. GPs also provide personalised support to tackle issues such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking and obesity.
Dr Emily Adams, Partner at Violet Lane Medical Practice, said: “A blood pressure check is quick, simple and should be seen as a routine part of looking after your current and future health and wellbeing. Early detection allows us to offer timely advice and treatment where needed, significantly reducing long-term risk. We strongly encourage Londoners to check their blood pressure; it’s a small step that can make a big difference.”
Free blood pressure checks are available at pharmacies across London with no appointment needed. Find your nearest pharmacy at nhs.uk/find-a-pharmacy
Londoners aged 40–74 without a pre-existing condition may also be eligible for a free NHS Health Check — ask your GP surgery for details.
If you notice signs of a stroke — a drooping face, arm weakness or difficulty speaking — call 999 immediately.
