Free blood pressure checks offered at Ipswich Town Fanzone this Friday

Why it matters: Around 28,000 people in Suffolk and north east Essex have undiagnosed high blood pressure, putting them at risk of serious health problems.

The big picture: High blood pressure is often called a "silent killer" because many people don't know they have it until they suffer a heart attack or stroke. It also increases the risk of conditions such as heart failure and kidney disease.

What they're saying: "High blood pressure is a risk for all of us and one we can't afford to ignore as it can creep up unnoticed," said Dr Andrew Kelso, Medical Director of NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board.

"If you know your blood pressure is high, you can do something about it. For some, simple changes to your diet or exercise habits will be enough, but others will need to start taking medication."

What's next: The Be Well Bus visit is part of the wider "May Measure Month" campaign encouraging people to get their blood pressure checked.

For context: The initiative is called the "Big Squeeze" and is supported by NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board.

The bottom line: Health leaders urge residents to get tested, saying: "It's much better to prevent or treat the problem than to have a stroke or heart attack that could kill you or greatly reduce the quality of your life."