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During Know your Numbers! Week 2009:
Across the UK, only 22% of people tested had an 'optimal' reading. This means 78% of those tested should be taking positive action to lower their blood pressure.
34% had high blood pressure readings (at least 140/90mmHg) which needed further investigation. 71% did not know their blood pressure numbers.
Even 'average' readings across England, Wales and Northern Ireland fell into the 'high normal' definition (130/85 - 139/89mmHg). This has serious implications for the future health of the population. For example, someone with a BP of 135/85mmHg is twice as likely to have a stroke or develop heart disease as someone with an optimal BP.
Readings for the North East are as follows:
| Area | No. of readings returned | % High reading | % High normal reading | % Unaware of bp numbers | Mean systolic | Mean diastolic |
| England | 21,571 | 34 | 23 | 71 | 131 | 80 |
| North East | 1,939 | 36 | 27 | 75 | 133 | 81 |
| Cleveland | 138 | 23 | 28 | 83 | 129 | 77 |
| County Durham | 690 | 37 | 32 | 68 | 130 | 78 |
| Northumberland | 26 | 58 | 15 | 85 | 121 | 74 |
| Teesside | 390 | 27 | 25 | 79 | 132 | 79 |
| Tyne & Wear | 695 | 41 | 22 | 77 | 132 | 80 |
