Knowledge, attitude and practices about hypertension amongst adult residents in South-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Hypertension (HTN) is a global public health concern and has been identified as the leading risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence, knowledge, attitude and practices regarding HTN amongst adult residents in South-Eastern Nigeria. Aims: The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence, knowledge, attitude and practices regarding HTN amongst adult residents in South Eastern Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted amongst male and female adult residents of Anaocha local government area, Anambra State, South-Eastern Nigeria, 18 years and above. Data was collected using a pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire amongst 296 adults. Blood pressures and the body mass index of those found to be hypertensive were obtained. Results were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: The mean age was 41.7 years, with 55.1% being females and 44.9% males. The prevalence of HTN was 30%. Overall, 53.28% of the respondents had good knowledge of HTN, although knowledge of the risk factors was lower (43.41%), while 80.24% had good attitude and 62.16% had good practices regarding HTN. Gender showed a significant association with level of knowledge of HTN. Only tribe and occupation were associated with attitude of the respondents towards HTN. Practice regarding HTN showed no association with any of the socio-demographic factors. Conclusion: The study found an acceptable level of knowledge, attitude and practices regarding HTN amongst the respondents. The prevalence of HTN amongst the study group was high and more work needs to be done to improve awareness and reduce HTN risk factors amongst the people.