Effects of Four Noble Truths Practice on Hypertension Control

Abstract

Objective: To examine the effects of Four Noble Truths practice in controlling blood pressure with three-group comparison, involving a Mobile Web group, Guidebook group and usual care group in patients with stage 1 hypertension.Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in one university hospital setting. 145 participants were recruited into the study by randomized selection and were randomly assigning to the three groups. Of these, 45 participated as Mobile Web users, 50 as Guidebook users and 50 in the control group. The Mobile Web and Guidebook were developed using the guidance of the Four Noble Truths and received a phone call every two weeks for three times while control received a usual care. Then, the outcomes were measured including blood pressure and satisfaction at two-month after recruitment. The average blood pressure and satisfaction were compared by comparative descriptive statistic. Finally, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to analyze the covariate that may influence the outcomes with the post hoc analysis by Bonferroni. Results: Participants who received Mobile Web and Guidebook had reduced their blood pressure more than those receiving usual care, with statistical significance (P < 0.05). It was found that blood pressures could be lowered to a maximum level of 5.09 ± 9.62mmHg within 8 weeks of treatment. Altogether, both groups were satisfied with healthcare services more than those receiving usual care, with statistical significance (P < 0.05).Conclusion: The program could be applied to control high blood pressure in patients with stage 1 hypertension. The outstanding of this program could support overall difference in healthcare of each patient with fast efficacy.