Tesco to offer free blood pressure testing in Dorset stores

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Shoppers are being encouraged to check their blood pressure while picking up groceries.

The campaign is part of a partnership in Dorset between Tesco and the British Heart Foundation (BHF) in Dorset and is being promoted during Heart Month as a simple way to prioritise health.

Free blood pressure tests are now available at Tesco pharmacies in Dorchester, Ferndown, and Poole.

Tesco have partnered with the British Heart Foundation (BHF) to encourage people to take a moment for their wellbeing this Heart Month by having a quick blood pressure check at the Tesco Superstore pharmacies in Dorchester, Ferndown and Poole. (Image: Tesco/Tigerbond)

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Tom Lye, Category Director for Health & Wellness at Tesco, said: "We want looking after your health to feel as simple as going into Tesco to do a shop.

"Our pharmacy teams are here to offer a quick, friendly blood pressure check – no fuss, no appointment needed.

"A few minutes in store can help to give peace of mind or get you support early if it’s needed."

The latest estimates from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities suggest that 60,000 people in Dorset are living with undiagnosed high blood pressure.

When identified early, high blood pressure can be effectively managed, helping to protect long‑term health.

Tesco’s pharmacy teams are offering 10-minute blood pressure checks, available as walk-ins or by appointment.

The checks are conducted in private consultation rooms.

Results are explained clearly, and anyone with a high reading is given guidance on what to do next.

All Tesco pharmacists and pharmacy staff undergo specialist Let’s Talk training to help them speak with customers about heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

The campaign is part of Tesco’s wider Health Charity Partnership, launched in 2018 with the British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK, and Diabetes UK.

Tesco have partnered with the British Heart Foundation (BHF) to encourage people to take a moment for their wellbeing this Heart Month by having a quick blood pressure check at the Tesco Superstore pharmacies in Dorchester, Ferndown and Poole. (Image: Tesco/Tigerbond)

Until March 1, customers can also choose to round up their shop to the nearest £1, to raise money for the Health Charity Partnership.

Professor Bryan Williams OBE, chief scientific and medical officer at the British Heart Foundation, said: "High blood pressure affects roughly one in three adults, yet many people remain unaware they have it because it usually presents no obvious signs.

"When it goes undetected, it can significantly raise the risk of heart attacks and strokes, which is why it’s so important for as many people as possible to get their blood pressure checked.

"Although high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems if ignored, the positive news is that it can be managed.

"Small lifestyle changes like being more active and reducing foods high in fat, salt and sugar can have a real impact – medication is also available when needed.

"Getting your blood pressure checked at a community location like your local Tesco is quick, straightforward and could be one of the most vital steps you take to protect your heart and overall health.

"Know your numbers this Heart Month."

As part of the campaign, Tesco Magazine and the Tesco Real Food website are also promoting heart-healthy recipes.

These include dishes lower in salt and saturated fat to support customers in making healthier choices at home.

The scheme aims to make health checks more accessible by fitting them into daily routines.

A blood pressure test at Tesco pharmacies takes around 10 minutes, with trained staff on hand to help customers understand their results and take appropriate action if required.

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