People in the North East and North Cumbria are encouraged to 'love their hearts' this Valentine's day.
High blood pressure, known as hypertension, is a leading cause of strokes and heart attacks, but is preventable and treatable with appropriate help and care.
Dr Raj Bethapudi, clinical lead for cardiovascular disease at the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board, said: "This February, why not think a little differently about Valentine's Day and give your heart some love.
"High blood pressure makes your heart work harder when pumping blood around your body, but the good news is that it's very treatable.
"It's called a silent killer, because there are usually no symptoms and people generally get on with life as usual, until a stroke or heart attack occurs."
The NHS advises adults over 40 to have their blood pressure checked at least once every five years and preferably annually if their blood pressure is borderline or if they have any lifestyle risk factors.
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