Where to check your numbers — free or low-cost

Many pharmacies have a free blood-pressure machine you can use any time you stop in — CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Duane Reade and more. The pharmacist can often check it for you and talk through your medications. No appointment, no cost.

NYC’s public hospitals see everyone — no matter your insurance or immigration status. NYC Care gives you low- or no-cost care and a regular doctor if you’re uninsured. A solid place to get your ABCs checked and keep them up.

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) give full check-ups on a sliding scale — you pay based on what you can afford. There are several around Brooklyn.

Churches, libraries, block parties, and community groups host free screening days — blood pressure, sugar, cholesterol — often with someone right there to explain the numbers. Ask at your church, your community center, or around the block.

A home blood-pressure monitor is cheap and easy. Sit and rest a few minutes first, feet flat, arm supported at heart level — then take the reading and write it down.

Some numbers can’t wait. Chest pain, trouble speaking or seeing, a sudden severe headache, or very high blood pressure with symptoms — call 911. You don’t have to tough it out.