Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Hypertensive Patients towards Hypertension in a Secondary Health Care Facility in Delta State

Abstract

Developing countries undergoing epidemiological transition face the double burden of communicable and non communicable diseases. Although safe and effective drugs and evidence- based treatment guidelines are available, the management of hypertension remains sub-optimal. This was a descriptive prospective study to determine the level of knowledge, practice and attitude (KAP) of hypertensive patients receiving medical care at Central Hospital Sapele towards hypertension. Pre-tested questionnaires were administered to 330 hypertensive patients, and the KAP of the patients assessed. Females 58.5% were more represented than males 41.5%. Respondents aged 65 and over were more represented (36.4%). A majority (43.3%) were unemployed, 58.8% were married and majority (51.2%) had a tertiary level of education. 8.8% were smokers while 25.5% alcoholics. Majority (53.3%) had family history of hypertension and most (36.7%) of them have had hypertension for over 5 years. 45.5% reported the presence of one or more co-morbidity of which diabetes mellitus (43.3%) was found to be the most co-morbid condition. Age, occupation, marital status and duration of hypertension were significantly related to KPA, p< 0.05. Only 53.3% reported satisfaction. Respondents demonstrated good knowledge and attitude but very good practice towards hypertension. The most prevalent co-morbid condition with hypertension was found to be diabetes mellitus. Majority of the respondents were satisfied with the level of care received from this institution.