I AM writing to let your readers know about an opportunity to find out their most vital statistic - their blood pressure numbers.

Every year the Blood Pressure Association (BPA), of which I am a member, runs a high-profile national blood pressure-testing week as part of its ongoing "Know Your Number!" campaign.

The event sees thousands of specially set up "pressure stations" offering information and blood pressure checks to the public at locations including health centres, supermarkets, pharmacies and health clubs. This year the event runs from September 12 to 18.

High blood pressure is serious - it is a major cause of heart disease and stroke - but it can be treated and sometimes prevented. The BPA is urging everyone to know their up-to-date blood pressure levels. If you can't pop along to a pressure station, there are lots of places where you can get your blood pressure checked - many pharmacies, health clubs and workplaces (with an occupational health department) offer checks year round.

As well as knowing your numbers, there are five simple steps we can all take to beat the pressure: cut down on salt, eat more fruit and vegetables, take regular exercise, stick to a healthy weight, and keep alcohol intake to recommended limits.

To find out more about the campaign and for details of local Pressure Stations, or to try the fun-based lifestyle quiz, log on to www.bpassoc.org.uk. Selected branches of Lloyds pharmacy, Asda pharmacy stores and Alliance pharmacy are also taking part in the event.

Marjorie Lloyd,

Ouse Lea,

Clifton,

York.

Updated: 10:19 Tuesday, August 23, 2005