May Measurement Month: The Simple Habit That Could Save Your Life
When was the last time you checked your blood pressure?
If you’re trying to remember… you’re not alone. Most of us don’t think much about blood pressure unless a doctor brings it up. But those two little numbers can say a lot about what’s going on inside your body.
That’s where May Measurement Month comes in—a global wellness reminder to pause, breathe, and check in with your heart health.
What Is May Measurement Month?
May Measurement Month (MMM) is a global health campaign created by the International Society of Hypertension. Every May, healthcare teams and volunteers around the world set up free blood pressure screening stations in:
- Pharmacies
- Community centers
- Shopping malls
- Workplaces
- Even parks!
The mission? To help people everywhere know their numbers and take action before problems start.
Think of it as a free wellness check-in—one that could quite literally save your life.
Why It Matters (Even If You Feel Fine)
High blood pressure—aka hypertension—is often called the “silent killer.” Why? Because most people with high BP don’t feel a thing.
But over time, it puts serious stress on your body. Left untreated, it can lead to:
- Heart attacks
- Stroke
- Kidney disease
- Vision loss
Here’s the big picture:
- Over 1.3 billion people live with high blood pressure.
- Nearly half don’t know it.
- It’s linked to more than 10 million deaths each year.
Scary? Yes. Preventable? Absolutely. And it only takes 60 seconds with an affordable home monitor.
Why Monitoring Your BP is a Total Wellness Win
Checking your blood pressure is about more than avoiding scary health surprises. It’s a simple, powerful way to:
- Stay in sync with your body
- Track how things like stress, sleep, or sodium affect you
- Catch early warning signs before they escalate
- Empower yourself with real data about your health
And the best part? You can do it at home. Blood pressure monitors are affordable, easy to use, and quick—just 60 seconds and you’re done.
What May Measurement Month Has Achieved So Far
Since launching in 2017:
- Over 5 million people have been screened
- Many discovered high blood pressure for the first time
- The campaign has influenced public health policies worldwide
It’s a beautiful reminder that a small act can create a big ripple.
How You Can Join the Movement
Want to take part? Here’s how:
✅ Get your blood pressure checked – at home, at a pharmacy, or during an MMM event
✅ Encourage your family and friends to do the same
✅ Share the message on social media using #MayMeasurementMonth
✅ Talk to your doctor if your readings are high or borderline
This tiny habit can have a huge impact on your health and your future.
