People over the age of 40 are being encouraged to have their blood pressure checked regularly, as this is one of the biggest risk factors for stroke.

The Irish Heart Foundation is holding its annual Irish Heart Month throughout September and this year's campaign is focusing on the prevention of stroke.

Entitled ‘Let's Strike Before Stroke. Life begins at 40 - don't let stroke stop it', it aims to make people more aware of stroke, including how to reduce their risks.

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that is carrying oxygen and nutrients to the brain bursts or is blocked by a clot. This causes an interruption of the blood supply to part of the brain.

This can damage or destroy brain cells, which will affect body functions. Every year in Ireland, some 10,000 people suffer a stroke and 2,000 die as a result. Thousands more are left with stroke-related disabilities. However if caught early and treated correctly, the patient may not suffer any long-term effects.

According to the Irish Heart Foundation, over 2,000 people under the age of 65 suffer a stroke each year, however it highlighted the fact that 80% of premature strokes are preventable.

"By making small changes to your lifestyle today, you can reduce your chances of having a stroke now and in the future," the charity said.

It highlighted the importance of having your blood pressure checked, as 60% of people over the age of 45 in Ireland currently have high blood pressure.

Furthermore, the majority of people with high blood pressure are not being treated for it, placing them at an increased risk of stroke, heart attack and other conditions such as heart failure and kidney failure.

As high blood pressure rarely produces any symptoms, it is essential that people have their blood pressure checked by a healthcare professional, such as a GP or pharmacist.

The Irish Heart Foundation also emphasised that there are a number of lifestyle changes a person can make to improve their blood pressure, including:
-Maintain a healthy weight
-Eat less salt and processed food and more fruit and vegetables
-Be more physically active
-Drink less alcohol.

For more information on this campaign, click here