Saint Mary's Hospital is offering free blood pressure checks from their medical staff to Grand Junction residents during two screenings this month.

According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, one in three Americans have high blood pressure with many not even knowing it. In many cases, it's only diagnosed after damaging other parts of the body.

Blood pressure is the force of the blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood. High blood pressure can lead to serious health issues including, coronary heart disease, heart failure or stroke.

This is why having your blood pressure checked at one of the screenings is important.

Medical professionals will be available to share information, discuss your blood pressure and make recommendations for follow-up with your doctor if needed.

The first blood pressure screening is on September 9 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The second is scheduled for September 17 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Both events will be held at St. Mary's Hospital Lobby, 2635 North 7th Street.

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