Health

Free Blood Pressure Screenings Offered Friday

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Valentine’s Day is just days away. And, if you’re looking for a perfect gift, here is a suggestion for you.

Show your love by knowing your numbers – your blood pressure numbers, that is.

This Friday, you can have your blood pressure checked at any of the 200-plus locations across the region, including fire stations, libraries, community centers, health clinics, businesses and County facilities, among other locations. Residents can call 2-1-1 or go to loveyourheartsd.org for the nearest screening location.

“We are going to help San Diegans to ‘love their hearts’ by offering free blood pressure screenings all over the county,” said County Supervisor Ron Roberts, who was joined by other County officials and community partners to kick off the annual Love Your Heart Day. “This is the fourth year we’re offering San Diegans this opportunity to take the first step toward being heart healthy.”

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and the second leading cause of death in San Diego County. About 4,500 people die from diseases of the heart in the region every year, including more than 3,000 who die from coronary heart disease. Furthermore, about 1,000 people die from stroke every year.

Obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and a family history of heart disease can put an individual at greater risk.

Last year, more than 17,000 people got their blood pressure checked for Love Your Heart.

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“Love Your Heart has one goal: to make it as easy as possible for adults to get their blood pressure checked, which is a great first step toward improving their heart health,” said Nick Macchione, director of the County Health and Human Services Agency. “We are coming together as a region to fight the number one killer of both women and men in the U.S.—heart disease.”

More than 100 organizations are partnering with the County for Love Your Heart by hosting blood pressure screenings. The Love Your Heart campaign supports Live Well San Diego, the County’s ongoing initiative to improve the health and safety of residents in the region.

This year, three cities in Mexico – Tijuana, Rosarito and Tecate – are also hosting blood pressure screenings at more than 30 locations, giving the event an international reach.

Hours for each screening site vary. For more information, call 2-1-1 or visit the Love Your Heart webpage

José A. Álvarez is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office. Contact