A nationwide campaign is making it easier for New Zealanders to check one of the country’s most common – yet often overlooked – health conditions.

More than 80 free blood pressure pop-up events are being held across the country between May 17 and 31, giving Kiwis an easy opportunity to monitor their heart health.

According to the Heart Foundation, high blood pressure, or hypertension, is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it can cause serious damage without obvious symptoms.

It remains the leading risk factor for heart disease – the biggest cause of death in New Zealand.

A statement from the Heart Foundation said the condition was linked to almost half of all cardiovascular-related deaths nationwide, contributing to about 4000 deaths every year.

Roughly one in three New Zealanders aged over 30 have high blood pressure, yet only a quarter have it under control.

About 350,000 people are living with the condition without knowing it.

Heart Foundation medical director Dr Gerry Devlin said high blood pressure damages arteries and can lead to a heart attack and stroke.

“It rarely has symptoms, which is why so many people don’t realise they have it.”

He said the good news was that managing it can “dramatically” reduce risk and protect the heart.

“For every 10-point drop in your systolic blood pressure, you reduce your risk of a heart event by 20%,” Devlin said.

Exercising more, eating healthier, reducing salt intake, improving sleep, reducing stress and cutting back on alcohol all have a positive effect.

“Managing blood pressure is one of the most powerful things you can do for your health,” Devlin said.

Blood pressure checks can be done by a range of health professionals at GP practices and pharmacies, but the free pop-up events make it even easier for people to get checked.

The Heart Foundation is encouraging people to take advantage of the free community checks being offered in the next two weeks.

In the Bay of Plenty, free blood pressure pop-up events will be held at St Enoch’s Presbyterian Church in Tauranga on May 25 from 10am to 2pm.

Papamoa residents can get checked at the Papamoa Community Centre on May 21 from 10am to 1pm.

An additional event will take place at Kawerau District Library on May 26 from 10am to midday.

“We want to encourage New Zealanders to get their checks done, understand what the numbers mean and take charge of their heart health to live a longer, healthier life,” Devlin said.