Millions of adults in the UK may be unknowingly risking their health by not checking vital health indicators such as blood pressure, according to the NHS. Health authorities are urging people, particularly those who feel well, to participate in the annual Know Your Numbers campaign, which highlights the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring through a simple ‘five-year rule’.
High blood pressure, often called the “silent killer,” can develop over many years without any noticeable symptoms, but it poses serious health threats if left untreated, including increased risk of heart disease, strokes, heart failure, and kidney disease. The condition quietly places strain on the heart and blood vessels, making early detection crucial.
The NHS encourages everyone aged 40 and above to have their blood pressure checked at least once every five years. Estimates suggest that around 4.1 million people in England are living with high blood pressure without realising it, prompting calls for more frequent and routine screenings.
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To help individuals understand their readings, the NHS has developed an online blood pressure checker. This tool allows users to input their recent measurements to learn what the numbers mean and receive guidance on the next steps.
Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers: systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart pumps blood) and diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats). For example, a reading of 130/80 mmHg indicates a systolic pressure of 130 and diastolic pressure of 80. In general, a blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg or higher measured in a clinic, or 135/85 mmHg or above at home, is considered high. Readings below 120/80 mmHg are typically regarded as healthy, although individual values can vary.
A single elevated reading does not automatically mean a person has hypertension. Following guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), if a clinic reading is 140/90 mmHg or higher, further assessments are usually recommended, which may include 24-hour ambulatory monitoring or additional home measurements to confirm persistent high blood pressure.
Blood pressure checks are widely available at GP surgeries and many pharmacies across England, free for those aged 40 and over. Some individuals also monitor their levels at home using approved devices.
When measuring blood pressure at home, the NHS advises sitting upright with feet flat on the floor, resting the arm on a table, and remaining relaxed and silent during the test. Taking a second measurement a few minutes after the first is recommended to ensure accuracy. Individuals who regularly monitor their blood pressure at home should consult their GP to review their readings and receive appropriate advice.
Interest in NHS information regarding high blood pressure has increased significantly, with the related webpage attracting over two million visits in 2025, marking a 36% rise from the previous year.
Health professionals stress the importance of not waiting for symptoms to appear, as high blood pressure often shows no warning signs. Checking blood pressure regularly can be vital for early detection and prevention. However, anyone experiencing persistent symptoms such as recurring headaches, blurred vision, chest pain, dizziness, or nausea should seek immediate medical advice rather than relying solely on the online checker for diagnosis.