Free blood pressure screenings in May to raise awareness and prevent strokes

submitted by Matt Pegouskie, 5 Healthy Towns Foundation

Do you know what to do when you suspect a loved one may be having a stroke? Do you know the risk factors for heart attack and stroke?

May is National Stroke Awareness Month and National High Blood Pressure Education Month, and to help area residents understand the risk factors for heart disease and stroke, 5 Healthy Towns Foundation, local medical providers, and the Washtenaw Chapter of the American Heart Association are teaming up to offer free blood pressure screening.

According to Spring Quinones, Community Impact Director at the American Heart Association, “blood pressure screening plays an important role in identifying this silent killer. Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure increases the risk of serious conditions such as heart disease and stroke.”

In addition to early detection, acting FAST when signs of a stroke are present is an important step in preventing permanent disabilities. FAST means taking action if you observe Face drooping, Arm weakness, or Speech difficulties — you know it’s Time to call 9-1-1. For every second the brain is without proper oxygen, brain tissue is damaged, leading to physical and cognitive impairments.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 3 adults has high blood pressure in the U.S. Every year in the U.S., more than 795,000 people have a stroke.

Free blood pressure screening stations will be set up at local senior centers and farmers markets during the month of May. Volunteer screeners from Henry Ford Health/Jackson, Chelsea Hospital, and the community will be taking readings and referring those individuals at high risk for a medical evaluation.

May 4 — Stockbridge Senior Center 10am–noon
May 7 — Dexter District Library at the Farmers Market 9am–noon
May 13 — Stockbridge Open Air Market 4–7pm
May 15 — Downtown Manchester (Canoe/Kayak Races) 1–3pm
May 18 — Grass Lake Farmers Market/Pavilion 4–7pm
May 21 — Chelsea Farmers Market/Palmer Commons 10am–1 pm
May 25 — Dexter Senior Center 10am–noon

For a schedule of events, go to OneBigConnection.org and click on the Events tab. For more information, contact Matt Pegouskie or Lori Kintz at 734-433-4599.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.