September is Heart Month in Ireland, a time when we come together to raise awareness about heart health, encourage healthy lifestyle changes, and promote cardiovascular wellness across the country. Led by the Irish Heart Foundation, Heart Month focuses on educating people about the importance of heart health and how we can take simple yet effective steps to prevent heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in Ireland.
At Adrian Dunne Pharmacy, we’re proud to support the Irish Heart Foundation’s Heart Month by encouraging our customers to avail of our FREE blood pressure check service. Pop into any of our stores to get your blood pressure checked for FREE!
Why Heart Health Matters
Cardiovascular diseases, which includes heart disease and stroke, account for nearly one-third of all deaths in Ireland. Many of these conditions are preventable through early detection, lifestyle changes, and ongoing health management. Heart Month provides an excellent opportunity to remind ourselves and our loved ones about the importance of regular check-ups, maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and staying mindful of our mental health.
Heart Month centres on prevention and early intervention, with a particular focus on monitoring blood pressure. 64% of people over 50 years old in Ireland have high blood pressure which is a leading cause of stroke, heart disease and heart attacks. High blood pressure, often referred to as a “silent killer”, typically has no symptoms but significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. By keeping tabs on your blood pressure, you can stay ahead of potential problems and reduce your risk of developing serious heart conditions.
Free Blood Pressure Checks
We encourage everyone to visit any of our pharmacies for a free blood pressure check. This simple and painless procedure takes just a few minutes, but it can provide invaluable insights into your heart health.
Here’s why you should get your blood pressure checked:
- Early Detection: High blood pressure often has no obvious symptoms, so a routine check could catch it before it becomes dangerous.
- Prevention: If your blood pressure is elevated, you can take steps to reduce it through lifestyle changes such as improving your diet, getting more exercise, or reducing stress.
- Peace of Mind: Even if your blood pressure is within the healthy range, knowing your numbers gives you peace of mind and helps you track your health over time.
Maintain a Healthy Heart with 8 Heart Healthy Habits
To maintain a healthy heart, here are 8 ways you can improve your heart health during Heart Month and beyond:
- Manage your blood pressure: The only way to look after – and know if you have – high blood pressure is to have it measured. Try to get your blood pressure checked regularly and find out what your reading is.
- Be Active: Regular exercise—like walking, cycling, or swimming—can strengthen your heart and lower blood pressure. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
- Control your Cholesterol: One of the best ways to prevent cardiovascular disease (such as stroke or heart attack) is to keep your cholesterol at a healthy level.
- Eat a balanced diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Reducing your intake of processed foods and salt can significantly lower your blood pressure.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. If you’re a smoker, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your heart and overall health.
- Manage your stress: Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure. Engage in activities that help you relax, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
- Aim for a Healthy Weight: For some people, losing weight is all they need to do to get their blood pressure down to a normal level.
- Cut Down on Alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure and contribute to heart problems. Stick to the recommended guidelines to keep your heart safe.
Together, let’s make heart health a priority—not just during September, but all year long. Your heart is at the centre of everything you do, so make sure to give it the care and attention it deserves.
Don’t hesitate to call into your local Adrian Dunne Pharmacy to get your FREE blood pressure check. You can find your local Adrian Dunne Pharmacy here.