ASSESSING KNOWLEDGE OF HYPERTENSION AND ITS RISK FACTORS AMONG PEOPLE RESIDING IN URBAN AREA IN PASCHIM MIDNAPORE,WEST BENGAL, INDIA

Abstract

The overall prevalence of raised blood pressure in adults aged 25 and over was around 50% in 2008 Globally. The prevalence is signicantly higher in geriatric population. The number of people with hypertension rose from 600 million in 1980 to nearly 2 billion in 2008. Worldwide, raised blood pressure is estimated to cause 7.5 million deaths, about 12.8% of the total of all annual deaths. This accounts for 57 million DALY (disability adjusted life years)s or 3.7% of total DALYs. Raised blood pressure is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease and ischemic as well as hemorrhagic stroke. Blood pressure levels have been shown to be positively and progressively related to the risk for stroke and coronary heart disease. In some age groups, the risk of cardiovascular disease doubles for each incremental increase of 20/10 mmHg of blood pressure, starting as low as 115/75 mmHg. In addition to coronary heart diseases and stroke, complications of raised blood pressure include heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, renal impairment, retinal hemorrhage and visual impairment. Treating high systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure so they are below 140/90 mmHg is associated with a reduction in cardiovascular complications. Blood pressure can be managed with drugs as well as non-pharmacological measures which consist of exercise, weight reduction, salt restriction, eating fruits and vegetables, etc. Nonpharmacological measures play an important role in management of hypertension. The present study was done to assess knowledge of hypertension and its associated risk factors. Methods:This was a cross-sectional and community-based survey of 500 residents of urban slums in Pascim Midnapore , West bengal, India. Aset of questionnaires assessing knowledge of hypertension and its associated risk factors were used. Results: Most persons (73.6%), possibly due to their negative and neglected attitude towards health promotion.whether having hypertension or not, had average knowledge related to hypertension determinants, diagnosis, management and consequences .Only45% of people knows about the risk factors related to hypertension correctly. Conclusion: It is necessary urgently to promote knowledge, awareness, and health literacy among urban slum residents to prevent hypertension and associated CVDs.