A LEADING charity has urged people to get tested for a heart condition that leaves thousands at risk of stroke if undetected or unmanaged.
NI Chest Heart Stroke (NICHS) yesterday said almost 40,000 people in Northern Ireland have already been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AF).
But it has warned that thousands more are at risk of stroke due to AF, which causes an irregular and often abnormally fast heart rate.
The NICHS said its new awareness campaign is aimed at educating the public around AF, which increases the risk of stroke by five times.
Research carried out by the charity found 70 per cent of people surveyed did not know what AF was with only 30 people in every 1,000 aware of the increased stroke risk.
Anyone can have AF, but the people most susceptible tend to be over 50, have diabetes, hyper-tension, or high blood pressure.
The campaign aims to urge people to take the AF on-the-spot test at an NICHS 'well-check' or contact their GP.
Belfast lord mayor Deirdre Hargey took the AF test as part of the launch at city hall.
"AF is a little-known condition and NI Chest Heart and Stroke is making massive strides in highlighting its existence, and promoting the test for AF to thousands of people," she said
"It’s so important to look after our health and well-being, so especially if youre over 50 and have diabetes, take a moment to find out today to learn more about the signs of AF."
Fidelma Carter of NICHS said: "The fact that seven out of 10 of us have never heard of atrial fibrillation is cause for concern.
"We encourage everyone to find out more about AF and most importantly to book in for a 'well-check' with us.
"The test for AF only takes a minute and involves simply placing your fingers on a small pad.
"If you know someone who is older and diabetic - ask them if they have ever heard of AF - you could save their life."
