Press release -
Stroke Association comment in response to new research on regular paracetamol use and high blood pressure - the journal Circulation
Dr Richard Francis, Head of Research Stroke Association said: “High blood pressure is the single biggest risk factor for stroke. This new and robust study, adds to previous research and suggests regular paracetamol use causes blood pressure to quickly increase in people who are already at risk of stroke and heart attacks. It’s therefore important that doctors regularly review and weigh up the risks and benefits of prescribing paracetamol. Patients in this study had pre-existing high blood pressure, so further studies in people with normal healthy blood pressure, over longer time periods are needed to confirm the risks and benefits of using paracetamol more widely.
“Getting your blood pressure checked regularly is vital to reduce your risk of a stroke. You can get your blood pressure checked at your local pharmacy, at an NHS Health Check appointment, at your GP surgery and at home. If caught early, high blood pressure can be monitored and treated, reducing your risk of a life-changing stroke.”
Topics
- Stroke strikes every five minutes in the UK and it changes lives in an instant.
- The Stroke Association is a charity working across the UK to support people to rebuild their lives after stroke. We believe that everyone deserves to live the best life they can after stroke. From local support services and groups, to online information and support, anyone affected by stroke can visit stroke.org.uk or call our dedicated Stroke Helpline on 0303 3033 100 to find out about support available locally.
- Our specialist support, research and campaigning are only possible with the courage and determination of the stroke community and the generosity of our supporters. With more donations and support, we can help rebuild even more lives.
- You can follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
