Ask Your Pharmacist 2012 - FREE HEALTH PROMOTION SERVICES

This November McKay Pharmacy are celebrating the National Ask Your Pharmacist event by providing free Blood Pressure and BMI checks in each of their pharmacies. During week commencing 5thand 12th November services are available to the general public free of charge and without the need for an appointment.

Nowadays, with many people leading a busy life it can be difficult to maintain a balanced, healthy lifestyle. McKay Pharmacy provides a range of services which can help you take a step in the right direction. Some of the more popular services include blood pressure monitoring and body mass index (BMI) measurement. These services are provided by trained, approachable staff at a time that is suitable for you in the privacy of the consultation room.

High blood pressure is a risk factor that can increase your chance of developing heart disease, a stroke, and other serious conditions. Blood pressure monitoring provides a simple check although it is particularly important for those on medication for blood pressure, cholesterol or for diabetic patients.

Body mass index measurement takes into account an individual's height and weight. BMI measurement can be a helpful monitoring tool when used as part of weight management or as part of a weight loss programme. The team at McKay Pharmacy would be happy to measure your BMI and offer any appropriate advice.

Men, in particular are encouraged to ask for advice on health and wellbeing during the Ask your Pharmacist campaign. Nearly nine in 10 men say they don't like to trouble a doctor or pharmacist unless they have a serious problem. 37% of people – men and women – worry about taking time off work to seek professional advice when they are ill.

• Ask Your Pharmacist Week is part of the National Pharmaceutical Association's on-going work to showcase community pharmacy as an expert clinical and public health resource, as well as an effective medicines supply service.
• The NPA is the UK's leading trade body for community pharmacy.