Exploring the acceptability of self-screening for hypertension in private drug shops:

Abstract

BACKGROUND
 In sub-Saharan Africa, the estimated burden of hypertension is increasing. Innovative strategies are neededto ensure that people can regularly check their blood pressure. This qualitative study aimed to understandparticipants’ knowledge of hypertension, explore the acceptability of self-screening blood pressure testing atprivate drug shops, and understand motivations and barriers for attending referral services after a high bloodpressure reading.
 METHODS
 The study took place between October 2013 and January 2014 in Mwanza region, Tanzania. In-depthinterviews were conducted with eight service providers and 14 service users. Two focus group discussionswere conducted with 24 community members.
 RESULTS
 Private drug shop attendants liked the opportunity to offer blood pressure testing, and their clientsappreciated the self-testing of their blood pressure. Some service users, whose screening suggested a raisedblood pressure, attended health facilities for further follow-up, driven by their expectations of good services,health concerns and a desire for treatment. Conversely, a perceived lack of severity of the condition werebarriers to attendance at the health facility, along with the long waiting times and drug stock-outs experiencedat the facilities.
 CONCLUSION
 Private drug shops provide an opportunity to acts as a gateway for more people to assess their health.However, self-screening alone cannot ensure those in need of treatment receive it. A broader structuralintervention is required to remove the barriers preventing people from attending health services and receivingadequate medical care.