Carolyn Male MP, State Member for Pine Rivers, is encouraging Pine Rivers residents to take time to have a free blood pressure check during this year’s Know your numbers campaign (17 to 23 May).

Carolyn Male MP said the Know your numbers campaign - which is supported by the Queensland Government and the Stroke Foundation - aims to raise awareness about high blood pressure and stroke in the community.

“The week-long Know your numbers program provides free blood pressure checks at over 500 local blood pressure stations throughout Queensland and Victoria,” Carolyn Male MP said.

“The program has also established permanent pressure station sites in Queensland pharmacies, and there are now over 200 pharmacies who offer free blood pressure checks throughout the year.”

“In 2009, more than 8,000 Queenslanders had their blood pressure taken at 334 blood pressure stations around the state.”

Carolyn Male MP said identifying high blood pressure is important in reducing the incident of stroke.

“There will be a blood pressure stations at the Discount Drug Store and the Health Pharmacy Strathpine from 17 to 23 May, and there are permanent pressure stations at Kensington Village Pharmacy, Bray Park Medical Pharmacy and Strathpine Plaza Pharmacy.”

“The Know your numbers program is a great way for people to be more proactive in managing their health.”

“As you get older, your risk of stroke increases so know your numbers primarily targets men and women aged 50 years and over.”

“The secondary target group of the campaign is adults 25 years and over - however, all adults should take the necessary steps to reduce their chances of having a stroke by quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, eating healthily and being physically active,” Carolyn Male MP said.