Rural health officers Shiela Roquero and Marilyn Fajardo check the blood pressure of Jasmin Bautista Robredillo of Sitio Gulod in Barangay San Vicente, Sta Maria, Bulacan on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (Freddie Velez)
The Rural Health Unit (RHU) of Barangay San Vicente in Sta Maria, Bulacan conducted a house-to-house visit and offered free blood pressure readings on Thursday, May 23.
The free blood pressure test also aims to raise awareness that extreme heat poses a risk to cardiovascular health.
According to RHU officer Shiela Roquero, due to the rising heat index, the number of people with high blood pressure has increased.
Roquero was accompanied by her team members Marilyn Fajardo, Akie Villamor, and Juvy Lucanias in doing the free blood pressure monitoring.
They warned residents that high blood pressure increases their risk of serious health problems, including stroke and heart attack.
They advised them to have their blood pressure checked regularly and to see their doctor because high blood pressure is a "silent killer."
"Mahirap mastroke sa labas, lalo na at nag-iisa ka lamang, wala kang kasamang mahal sa buhay,"(It's hard to suffer from a stroke while outside, especially when you are alone ," Roquero said.