In the busy world that we live in, it is easy to overlook our health until something goes wrong. However, being proactive about health can prevent many potential issues, and a key part of this is knowing your numbers!
Know Your Numbers: why it is important
Knowing your numbers means taking action to measure and understand important statistics about your health: critical health metrics like blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and Body Mass Index (BMI) are vital indicators of your overall health. For example, high blood pressure, often dubbed the "silent killer," can lead to severe conditions like heart disease and stroke if left unchecked. Similarly, high cholesterol levels may increase the risk of heart attacks, while abnormal blood sugar levels can be a sign of diabetes, a condition that requires careful management. Knowing your BMI can help assess whether you are at a healthy weight, a crucial factor in preventing a range of health issues.
Knowing your numbers allows you to take control of your health
Regular monitoring can help detect early signs of potential problems, leading to timely interventions that can prevent more serious conditions. It also empowers you to make informed lifestyle choices, such as adopting a healthier diet, increasing physical activity, or managing stress better.
This is where the Know Your Numbers Week in September plays a crucial role. This annual campaign is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of regular health checks. It encourages people to get their numbers checked and understand what they mean, thereby helping to prevent major health issues before they arise.
6 million people in the UK have high blood pressure and don’t know it
Reference: Blood Pressure UK
Regular blood pressure checks
It's important to monitor your blood pressure regularly, especially if you have risk factors like a family history of hypertension, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle. You can get your blood pressure checked at your doctor's surgery, local pharmacy, or a public or workplace health kiosk.
Ideally, you should measure your blood pressure at least once a year if it's within the normal range. However, if you have elevated levels or other health concerns, then more frequently would be advisable.
Know your numbers with the
Interactive Health Kiosk
Convenient and confidential access to measure vital health metrics, empowering employees to monitor and manage their overall health and wellbeing proactively
Knowing your numbers is not just about data; it’s about understanding your health and taking steps to ensure a healthier future.
The Know Your Numbers campaign underscores that by staying informed about our health metrics, we can take preventative steps to maintain our overall health and wellbeing, making it an essential part of health education and awareness efforts. It serves as a timely reminder to prioritise this important aspect of health care. By knowing your numbers, you are investing in your health and longevity.
Take a look here for more ways on how to protect your heart health!
References and further reading
https://www.bloodpressureuk.org/know-your-numbers/
https://wellbeingpeople.com/interactive-health-kiosk/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronary-heart-disease/prevention/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/blood-pressure-test/
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