Blood pressure checking machines in main cities

Nadira GUNATILLEKE

Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena has instructed health authorities to install blood pressure monitors in all main cities allowing people to get their blood pressure checked free of charge whenever they wish.

This is one of the main steps to be taken by the ministry to control the rapidly increasing Non Communicable Diseases (NCD).

A Health Ministry spokesman said the project will be implemented with JICA assistance.

Five machines will be installed within Colombo city limits including WTC and the Health Ministry on April 30 as the first phase. Those wanting to check their blood pressure should insert their hands into the machine and within seconds the machine will display the blood pressure. The project will be later expanded covering all main cities, he said.