Millions of adults in the UK may be unknowingly risking their health due to a lack of awareness about their blood pressure levels, the NHS has warned. As part of its annual Know Your Numbers campaign, health officials are urging people, especially those aged 40 and over, to have their blood pressure checked if it has been more than five years since their last reading.
High blood pressure, often called the ‘silent killer’, tends to develop gradually and usually presents no obvious symptoms, even though it can cause serious harm to the heart, blood vessels, and kidneys. If left untreated, it significantly increases the risk of heart disease, strokes, heart attacks, heart failure, and kidney disease.
The NHS encourages individuals to use its online blood pressure checker, where people can enter their most recent readings to understand what these numbers mean and receive guidance on any necessary next steps.
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Blood pressure readings consist of two figures: the systolic pressure (the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats) and the diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart rests between beats). For example, a reading of 130/80 indicates a systolic pressure of 130 and a diastolic pressure of 80.
According to NHS guidelines, blood pressure is generally considered high if it is 140/90 mmHg or above when measured by a healthcare professional, or 135/85 mmHg or above when measured at home. Readings under 120/80 mmHg are typically regarded as healthy, though blood pressure can vary between individuals and fluctuate throughout the day.
It is important to note that a single high reading does not necessarily indicate hypertension. Following guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), further testing-including 24-hour ambulatory monitoring or repeated home measurements-is usually recommended to confirm sustained high blood pressure.
Blood pressure checks are available at GP surgeries and many pharmacies across England, often free for those aged 40 and above. Home monitoring with a suitable device is also encouraged, with the NHS advising that individuals sit upright with their feet flat on the floor, resting their arm on a table, and remain relaxed without talking during measurements. To ensure accuracy, taking a second reading a few minutes after the first is recommended. Those who routinely use home monitors should consult with their GP practice for advice.
The latest campaign follows a marked increase in public interest, with the NHS’s high blood pressure webpage attracting over two million visits in 2025, marking a 36% rise from the previous year.
Health officials emphasise the importance of regular checks, stressing that people must not wait for symptoms to appear since high blood pressure often develops silently. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as recurring headaches, blurred vision, chest pain, dizziness, nausea, or headaches should seek medical attention promptly rather than relying solely on online tools.
The NHS continues to urge adults to know their numbers as an essential step in detecting health issues early and protecting their wellbeing.