Free Blood Pressure Screenings at the ING Philadelphia Distance Run and Health and Fitness Expo September 18, 2009

An estimated 28.1 percent of adults in Pennsylvania have been informed by their physician that they have high blood pressure, a serious chronic disease that can cause damage to the blood vessels and make the heart work harder. Nationally, an estimated 74 million adults in the U.S. – nearly one in three – suffer from high blood pressure, and approximately 30 percent are not even aware that they have the condition.

To address this critical public health concern, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) is sounding the alarm on the dangers of high blood pressure and the importance of diagnosing and managing this condition in Philadelphia. The “Stop, Drop, Control High Blood Pressure” Program is a unique public initiative that equips fire fighters - first responders in protecting our health and safety –to educate the local community on this important health issue.

To experience “Stop, Drop, Control High Blood Pressure” in your community, visit the ING Philadelphia Distance Run Health and Fitness Expo, where visitors can get their blood pressure checked and learn about high blood pressure diagnosis and treatment. A representative from the Philadelphia Fire Fighter’s Union, Local 22, IAFF, will be at the Expo on Saturday, Sept. 19 to discuss the Stop, Drop, Control program and blood pressure awareness. Members of the Philadelphia Fire Department – as well as a Gentry mascot - will also be on site on Friday, Sept. 18 to educate the public about fire prevention and greet booth visitors.

The Stop, Drop, Control Program is being conducted through a collaboration between the IAFF and Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation.

Official Website: http://www.stopdropcontrol.com