People in the South West are being urged to tap into the healthcare expertise available at their local pharmacies, following a new survey.

The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) survey revealed that 35 per cent of people in the region incorrectly think the flu jab can give them flu. It also shows that while many people are embracing the public health role of pharmacies, some topics are perceived as off-limits.

The results of the survey are being published to mark the beginning of Ask Your Pharmacist Week. In the South West:

• 62 per cent of people understand that pharmacies offer health promoting services like blood pressure checks, flu jabs and help to give up smoking
• 37 per cent understand that they can ask their pharmacist about reducing heart attack or stroke risks, but only 29% think it is OK to ask in a pharmacy about reducing cancer risks
• Just 17 per cent of people know that most pharmacies have consultation rooms, where they can talk to the pharmacist without being overheard

Nick Kaye, a superintendent pharmacist from Newquay and NPA board member representing the South West, said: "Most people know that pharmacists are experts on medicine, but many don't know about the other services we can provide.

"We can treat common ailments, give advice on maintaining and improving your health and offer a range of NHS services, without the need for an appointment.

"Come in and talk to us, you might be surprised at the level of expertise on your high street."

NPA chairman and pharmacist, Ian Strachan, said: "The public is getting accustomed to certain new pharmacy services, such as flu vaccinations on the NHS, and they understand that pharmacies have a role in supporting healthier lifestyles.

"Yet they need to be reassured that nothing is off limits in terms of what you can ask your pharmacist about. We want people to feel that it's perfectly acceptable to talk with the pharmacy team about cancer, sexual health and many other topics they might have thought were are out of bounds."

Punchline says "Using your local pharmacy is a win-win. Not only are you supporting an independent, local business, but you are easing the pressure on GP's surgeries at one of the busiest times of the year."