This spring, we have added blood pressure monitoring kits to our collection. All branch locations now have two kits: one for use inside the library and another for a three-week checkout.

The new kits were made possible thanks to a $3,000 grant from The American Heart Association. They include a blood pressure monitor, regular and extra-large blood pressure cuffs, laminated information cards, and instructions for use.

 According to The American Heart Association, one in three adults with hypertension do not even realize they have it. Known as the silent killer, high blood pressure is one of the most common risk factors for stroke – which is the fifth leading cause of death and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the U.S.

“Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure,” said Heather Peterson, vice president of Community Impact for the Twin Cities Heart Association. “The goal of this collaboration is to help put an end to undiagnosed high blood pressure. By partnering with Washington County Libraries, we are reaching more Minnesotans to help them know their numbers and help prevent or control risks of stroke and heart disease.”

Part of the grant will also be used to purchase a tabletop blood pressure monitor for use inside the library.

“One of the most important things that adults can do for their health is to keep an eye on their blood pressure, and there aren’t a lot of opportunities other than making an appointment with your doctor,” said Cate Sering, Library Division Manager. “This is a way for us to bring access to all community members more broadly across the county.”

Learn more about the new blood pressure monitor kits and place a hold in our catalog.

For more information on high blood pressure and stroke, visit www.heart.org.