Boots has introduced a new Private Blood Pressure Check Service in selected Welsh stores, including Wrexham's Plas Coch store.

This service aims to help customers identify and address elevated blood pressure levels.

Recent research by the British Heart Foundation suggests that up to 180,000 Welsh residents potentially suffer from unidentified hypertension, clinically diagnosed when blood pressure consistently measures 140/90mmHg or above.

This condition forces the heart to work harder to pump blood around the body.

If overlooked, circulatory diseases such as heart attacks or strokes could develop.

Currently, around half of heart attacks and strokes in Wales relate to high blood pressure, according to the British Heart Foundation.

The service involves a trained Boots clinician measuring patients' blood pressure from both arms during the appointment, and then explaining the results in detail.

Patients will also receive personalised advice and a leaflet detailing their blood pressure readings.

This leaflet will consist of tailored healthy living suggestions, including diet, fitness and weight regulation advice.

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Boots pharmacist & store manager at Newport Spytty Retail Park, Emily Reilly, said: "As a pharmacist, it's a great opportunity to help the local community and demonstrate the role that Boots can play in helping customers to take control of their health.

"When speaking to GPs, they are very supportive and see that we can start to relieve some pressure from them.

"We’re expecting this service to grow even stronger as more referrals come in."

The Blood Pressure Check Service can be booked online or in a store for £15.

While it's available to adults aged 18 and over, it's not appropriate for pregnant women, who can claim a free blood pressure check as part of routine examinations.

People diagnosed with atrial fibrillation or irregular heartbeat also don't count as suitable for the service.