FREE health checks are available at Blooms The Chemist Mittagong until the end of September to raise awareness of stroke and what residents can do to prevent it.

The free Know Your Numbers health checks, which began as part of National Stroke Week, will help the Highlands community to be its best and take action to reduce the risk of stroke.

Pharmacists Tony Ly and Ron Kite will continue to conduct the health checks until the end of the month to provide advice and help community members to be healthy, be aware and be their best.

Mr Ly said that many Australians did not know that blood pressure was a key indicator to their risk of having a stroke.

"Blood pressure along with age, gender and lifestyle, as well as family history of stroke and medical conditions combine to help establish your risk of stroke," he said.

"If you know your numbers, you may be able to make small, simple changes to your lifestyle to reduce the likelihood of stroke."

National Stroke Foundation executive officer NSW Greg Cantwell said he encouraged community members to set themselves a challenge this National Stroke Week.

"The recent Stroke in Australia report demonstrated that no postcode is untouched by this disease; it is impacting our families and communities," he said.

"However, many strokes can be prevented. We can come together and take action to stop stroke and challenge its impact on the community.

"Visit your local participating pharmacy for a free Know Your Numbers health check. It will only take five to ten minutes, is non-invasive and may save your life."

Those identified as being at risk will be referred to their doctor for advice on how to lower their risk and improve their health.

Appointments are not necessary, simply visit Blooms The Chemist Mittagong any day this September and ask for a free Know Your Numbers health check.

Blooms The Chemist Mittagong trading hours:

* Monday-Friday: 8.30am to 7pm

* Saturday: 8.30am to 4pm

* Sunday: 9am to 2pm