Community Memorial Hospital is offering free blood pressure screenings in its main lobby every Monday, from noon to 2 p.m., beginning in July through its HeartAware and StrokeAware programs.

No appointment is necessary; walk-ins are welcomed.

The American Heart Association recommends routine periodic screening for high blood pressure since the condition does not have any symptoms and is often known as the “silent killer.” In fact, many people have high blood pressure for years without knowing that it may be causing damage to your arteries, heart and other organs. The AHA reports that many people assume that high blood pressure is related to high levels of stress, tension and nervousness, but the truth is relaxed, easy-going people can still have it.

The only way for people to know if they are hypertensive is to have their blood pressure checked. High blood pressure can develop over time, and there are many treatment options available to manage the disease. Prompt treatment can reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, angina and congestive heart failure. Andrea Ricketts, MSN, NP, CMH’s HeartAware/Stroke Aware Program Manager states “with regular tracking of your blood pressure, along with knowledge of potential consequences and participation in programs such as StrokeAware can help motivate individuals to better care for their arteries and live a heart healthy lifestyle.”
The screenings are provided free of charge through Community Memorial Hospital ’s HeartAware and StrokeAware programs. For more information, call 805/667-2818 or visit www.cmhshealth.org.

Community Memorial Hospital is a member of Community Memorial Health System, a not-for-profit health system, which is comprised of Community Memorial Hospital, Ojai Valley Community Hospital, and nine family-practice health centers entitled Centers for Family Health. The health system is located in Ventura County, California.