On 7 November, the first phase of Check your pulse –Check your pulse, in Catalan. This is a health promotion campaign aimed at detecting arrhythmias in people over the age of 60, thereby helping to prevent strokes, also known as cerebral infarctions. The idea behind this campaign stems from the Department of Healththe Ictus Foundation and the Council of Pharmaceutical Associations of Catalonia. And it aims to encourage a healthy habit amongst the over-60s: taking a walk.
The campaign Check your pulse The first phase has involved health centres and pharmacies in the city of Barcelona, Osona, Terres de l’Ebre and Vallès. This first phase ends next Tuesday, 20 December. Throughout this period, the participating pharmacies are playing a vital role in preventing health problems amongst the Catalan population. In this case, by offering free pulse checks to people aged 60 and over. And by compiling a guide containing basic information about stroke.
The launch of *Tómate el pulso*
The project was officially launched in Barcelona on 28 November. The presentation was given by the Regional Minister for Health, Antoni Comín, the doctor and member of the FA (atrial fibrillation) Route Committee, Mariano de la Figuera, and the vice-president of the Barcelona College of Pharmacists, Francesc Pla, at a chemist’s in the Gracia neighbourhood.
The fact is that, amongst the medical professionals, taking the pulse of people over 60 is a standard measure. And the available data show that this is a much-needed preventive measure. It is estimated that between 8% y 10% of this population has arrhythmia. Furthermore, in Catalonia there are around 39,400 people who are not yet aware of it. For this reason, it is important to monitor this section of the population. And, should any arrhythmias be detected, to be able to take action to prevent an irreversible health problem: a stroke.
Acknowledgements
We at GTF M. Camps would like to publicly thank all the pharmacies that have taken part in this initiative, which we hope will have a positive impact on the health of people aged 60 and over. We would also like to encourage the health authorities to promote health through preventative measures of this kind.
“A healthy population is a country’s greatest asset.” Winston Churchill