High blood pressure 'the biggest stroke risk factor'

People should check their blood pressure regularly in order to help prevent against stroke, a national charity has said.

According to the Stroke Association, which funds research into prevention, treatment and methods of stroke rehabilitation, high blood pressure is "the biggest risk factor for strokes".

Spokeswoman Angela Rowlands said that all of the basic prevention messages apply, including exercising, keeping healthy, not smoking and avoiding binge-drinking.

"But the biggest thing is high blood pressure because…a lot of people don't know they've got high blood pressure, so it's just making sure you get yourself tested regularly," she revealed.

The expert said that people should take it upon themselves to get their blood pressure measured on a regular basis and should ensure they know the warning signs of a stroke.

Stroke is the third most common cause of death in the UK, affecting over 130,000 people every year in the UK.
  
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