Check it out: Program to offer free blood pressure monitors at library

A new pilot program at the Yonkers Riverfront Library will soon allow community members to check out a blood pressure monitor while checking out books.
The Westchester County Health Department partnered with the American Heart Association to introduce the Check. Change. Control. trackers to help identify hypertension.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer announced that three of the automated cuffs will be available at the library starting in April.
Doctors say high blood pressure is the No. 1 cause of death in Westchester, and is referred to as the silent killer.

"If individuals know certain specific numbers, it can really reduce the risk of heart disease or stroke. You want to know what your blood pressure is, not just one time but blood pressure is something you need to monitor over a period of time," says Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler.

County health officials say residents can check out the Check. Change. Control. tracker to monitor their blood pressure for up to two weeks and then return it free of charge.