As part of ongoing public health efforts, supporters attending the match at the County Ground today will have the opportunity to have their blood pressure checked and learn more about their cardiovascular health.

Public health initiatives at sporting events are playing an increasingly important role in raising awareness of preventable conditions such as high blood pressure. With growing concern around heart and blood-related incidents at football matches and other large gatherings, health professionals are using these platforms to encourage fans to take simple, potentially life-saving steps.

These quick and accessible checks can help individuals understand their risk of conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases, particularly for those who may not routinely visit their GP or pharmacy.

High blood pressure, often described as the ​“silent killer”, rarely presents noticeable symptoms. Despite this, it is a major contributing factor to serious health problems, including strokes, heart attacks, and heart failure. A significant number of adults remain undiagnosed, putting them at unnecessary risk.

Recent years have seen a number of high-profile heart and blood-related incidents at football matches, both on and off the pitch. These events have highlighted the importance of early detection, routine monitoring, and increased public awareness of cardiovascular health.

By bringing testing directly into community settings such as stadiums, healthcare organisations, including bodies like Bath & North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board (BSW ICB), aim to reach a wider audience. These initiatives not only identify individuals with raised blood pressure but also provide immediate advice, education, and guidance on next steps.

Shane Hewlett, Head of Foundation, emphasised the importance of these initiatives:

“It is vital that individuals take proactive steps to understand and manage their health, and increasing awareness around routine checks can ultimately save lives. We have seen a number of medical emergencies occur at football matches, often linked to underlying, undiagnosed conditions. By providing accessible opportunities for supporters, particularly men, to get checked within the stadium environment, we can help address this gap. Football matches can be highly charged and emotional occasions, which further underlines the importance of ensuring supporters are aware of their cardiovascular health and feel empowered to take action.

“By raising awareness of this hidden killer, we can help prevent serious illness and, ultimately, improve the long-term health and wellbeing of our local population.”

Health professionals stress that prevention and early intervention are key. Simple lifestyle changes, combined with regular monitoring, can significantly reduce the risk of developing serious conditions.

Taking a few minutes to check your blood pressure may seem like a small step, but it could make a vital difference, helping you stay healthy and ​“in the game” for years to come.

Dr Barry Coakley, GP and Deputy Chief Medical Officer at BSW ICB, said:

“High blood pressure is responsible for more than half of all strokes and heart attacks, and preventing it is a key priority for Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board. However, many adults living with risk factors remain undiagnosed. Without detection and medicine management, these conditions can increase the risk of having a stroke, heart attack, or heart failure.

“We are committed to preventing ill health, and hosting a pop-up clinic at the County Ground is an excellent opportunity to reach local people who may not otherwise have their blood pressure measured.”