Health professionals identified 100 islanders with raised blood pressure and detected a previously undiagnosed case of atrial fibrillation during a series of heart health awareness events held last week.
The pop-up clinics, organised by Health and Care Jersey’s cardiology team as part of Heart Failure Awareness Week, attracted 266 people – a 49% increase on the 179 islanders who attended similar events in 2025.
The free screening sessions took place at the General Hospital and the Central Market, offering blood pressure and heart rate checks alongside advice on heart health and preventative care.
Of those seen, 100 were advised to make an appointment with their GP after being found to have elevated blood pressure readings.
Clinicians also identified one new case of atrial fibrillation – a potentially serious condition causing an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm – with the individual urged to seek urgent medical attention from their GP.
Heart failure affects more than 2,000 islanders and occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood around the body as effectively as it should.
One of those impacted is Artur Rodrigues, who shared his own experience in a bid to encourage others to seek help early.
The 51-year-old said he had previously been sporty and active before he began suffering from fatigue, breathlessness and swollen ankles.
His condition deteriorated to the point where he started collapsing and was eventually referred to specialist hospitals in Oxford and Harefield, where he was diagnosed with heart failure.
“If I hadn’t received the help and support from Jersey, Oxford and Harefield, I would not be here today,” he said.
Mr Rodrigues, who now attends monthly cardiology appointments to monitor his blood pressure and other vital signs, said he wanted to tell his story because of the “great, great job” carried out by medical staff.
“I knew how I was feeling then, and now I have my life back,” he added.