To mark World Heart Day 2023, the Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science (LCCS) offered free heart health checks to the public.

The team were at Liverpool Central Library on Friday 29 September asking the public to take part in a ‘heart health MOT’ and to learn how lifestyle changes can improve cardiovascular health.

The MOT included a blood pressure, height and weight check and screening for an irregular heartbeat using a smartphone.

The north west of England has some of the highest levels of cardiovascular disease. The LCCS was established in 2019 with the goal of addressing these concerning statistics via world-leading research, public engagement, and informing local and national policy making.

Professor Deirdre Lane, Professor of Cardiovascular Health and Head of Department for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine at the University of Liverpool highlights the importance of early detection and prevention of cardiovascular conditions: “Knowledge is power – on World Heart Day we are encouraging people to ‘know your own numbers’ – for blood pressure and heart rate and rhythm.  Knowing you have high blood pressure or an irregular heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation) and getting appropriate treatment is important to prevent serious events like a stroke.”

LCCS brings together world-leading research and clinical specialists in cardiovascular biology and medicine from the University of Liverpool, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital Trust, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Health Partners.

Civic buildings in the region were also lit up red to celebrate World Heart Day.