Every May, the world comes together for a powerful cause: May Measurement Month (MMM) — a global campaign initiated by the International Society of Hypertension to raise awareness on the importance of regular blood pressure checks. In Kenya, this lifesaving initiative is spearheaded by the Kenya Cardiac Society, and we at Stowelink Foundation were honored to take part in this global movement once again.

Throughout the month, starting from May 12th, our team carried out weekly blood pressure screening and education activities at Githurai 44, reaching communities with vital information and practical screening services. Over the course of four Sundays, we screened more than 1,000 individuals, providing them with knowledge, counseling, and in some cases, referrals for follow-up care.

📊 Our weekly numbers:

• Week 1: 274 people screened
• Week 2: 252 people screened
• Week 3: 222 people screened
• Week 4: 258 people screened

This year’s campaign offered more than just numbers. It gave us insights into community attitudes toward blood pressure screening:

• Women showed a significantly higher willingness to be screened.
• Many men were reluctant, often saying they “felt fine” and didn’t need a checkup.
• Older adults embraced the exercise more than their younger counterparts.
• Some participants jokingly asked for HIV tests instead — a reflection of the need to destigmatize NCD screening.
• Others requested integration of services like blood sugar tests, highlighting a demand for more comprehensive community health services.

These insights will shape how we approach the next MMM campaigns. We are committed to ensuring that we do not leave anyone behind.

We sincerely thank the Stowelink Foundation team for their unwavering commitment every Sunday — braving weather and long queues to make a difference. We are grateful to the Kenya Cardiac Society for their collaboration and support, and we commend the International Society of Hypertension for creating this impactful global movement that continues to save lives.

At Stowelink, we believe that awareness is the first step toward prevention. Together, let’s continue to amplify the message:
✅ Know your numbers.
✅ Check your pressure.
✅ Protect your heart.

Listen to the voices from the field here:

#BigSqueeze #SleevesUp #MayMeasurementMonth #ActOnNCDs #LeadOnNCDs #ItsTimeToLead