Blood Pressure Monitoring Stations Available At Many Locations Throughout The Lowcountry

(Photo Courtesy of the American Heart Association)

The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives, has announced the installation of new, free-to-use blood pressure monitoring machines at several community locations throughout the Lowcountry. This initiative makes it easier than ever for residents to check and monitor their blood pressure.

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is often referred to as a “silent killer” because it may not present any symptoms. Hypertension is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease in South Carolina.

The blood pressure monitoring machines are available at the following locations:

• Summerville Family YMCA – Downtown
• Summerville Family YMCA at the Ponds
• Dorchester County Library
• Jennie J. McMahan St. George Library
• George H. Seago Jr. Summerville Library
• North Charleston Library
• Ashley River Library
• Charleston County Public Library
• St. Paul’s Hollywood Library
• Baxter-Patrick James Island Library
• Keith Summey North Charleston Library
• St. Mark AME Church in Adams Run
• Community Resource Center, North Charleston

The blood pressure machines expand on programs already in place at several locations. Patrons can check out self-monitoring blood pressure kits at all Charleston County and Dorchester County Library locations.

“We serve thousands of people weekly and are grateful to have this new resource,” said Louis Smith, founder of the Community Resource Center in North Charleston. “We are eager to empower those we serve to take control of their health and prevent the long-term risks associated with high blood pressure.”

According to the South Carolina Department for Public Health, about 1 in 3 South Carolinians have been told by a doctor they have hypertension. Thousands more have it and don’t know it. It’s vital to regularly check your blood pressure and know your numbers. Untreated high blood pressure can cause heart attack, stroke, and other health threats.

Katie Schumacher, executive director of the American Heart Association, Charleston, emphasized the importance of these resources. “Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, often without realizing it. By offering these monitoring services through collaboration with community organizations, we’re helping Lowcountry residents become more aware of their blood pressure levels and reduce the risk factors associated with stroke and heart disease.”

American Heart Association blood pressure management initiatives in the Lowcountry are supported by Blackbaud and MUSC Health.

For more information about high blood pressure, visit www.heart.org/HBP.

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