Residents are invited to undergo free blood pressure checks on February 13 at the Bermuda Diabetes Association’s community pharmacy.

As part of a Valentine’s campaign titled “A Date With BDA”, the pharmacy will also offer an immediate follow-up consultation.

For the one-day programme — which is also being held as part of World Heart Month — individuals, couples and friends will be afforded a heart-healthy “date” with the pharmacy through a simple, quick and accessible blood pressure check with Melissa Levy, the unit’s head pharmacist.

Immediately after the screening, participants will meet Sonia Bromfield-Cornish, a pharmacy educator, to review their results.

Dr Bromfield-Cornish will discuss any heart medication queries and the BDA said no appointment is required for the screening.

The service is open to members of the public on Friday, from 9am to 4pm, with complimentary food and drink served at the association’s offices on Princess Street, between Dundonald Street and Elliott Streets.

Ms Levy said: “Valentine’s Day is often about showing love to others, but it’s also a perfect time to focus on yourself.

“With ‘A Date With BDA,’ we’re inviting everyone to take a few moments for their heart — it’s a simple, friendly way to check in on your heart health.”

As an added bonus, all participants will be entered into a draw to win one of five blood pressure monitors, which benefit additional care of the heart at home, the association said.

The charity noted that high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, and often presents with no obvious symptoms, making regular monitoring especially important.

Through the promotion, the pharmacy aims to raise awareness about preventive heart health while creating a welcoming and approachable experience.

The BDA Community Pharmacy is open to everyone, not only people living with diabetes.

It operates as a social enterprise, with proceeds directly supporting the BDA’s mission to improve access to diabetes care.

In 2025, the pharmacy filled nearly 1,400 prescriptions — valued at over $160,000 — at no cost to patients who were without adequate insurance.

“To us, this is the easiest date you’ll have in the lead-up to Valentine’s Day,” Ms Levy added. “No reservations, no pressure, just a few minutes that could make a real difference for your heart health. We look forward to seeing you on February 13.”