Pressuring costs

I was fascinated by the ­article about blood pressure (26 March).

I have had a “bee in ma bunnet” about this for a long time as a retired GP who trained in Edinburgh.

We were taught that, when taking a blood pressure, one should apply the cuff to the upper arm and inflate it several times until one obtained several steady blood pressures readings, thus eliminating the “white coat syndrome” and reducing the anxiety factor.

This is increased with the use of the modern automatic version when it is slapped on your arm and a single reading obtained.

I know, as I now receive treatment for mild hypertension. I certainly agree that an immense saving in costs would ensue.

(Dr) Robert L Grant

Falkirk