Abstract
Hypertension is a global, non-communicable chronic disease being asymptomatic and known as the silent killer with signs and symptoms only occurring when a target organ is damaged. Being a condition common in South Africa, hypertension is also a risk factor for cerebro-vascular incidents, myocardial infarction, left ventricular hypertrophy, renal disease and retinopathy. Black adults in an urban environment appear to be especially vulnerable to excessive increases in blood pressure. The research question explored was what was the knowledge of hypertensive adults attending day clinics in Ga-Rankuwa regarding nutrition and hypertension management practices. An exploratory strategy was used as no similar research had previously been conducted in Ga-Rankuwa. A cross sectional survey design was used to investigate hypertensive adults attending the three primary health clinics in Ga-Rankuwa. The sampling method was convenient and the sample size 101 participants. Two data gathering methods were used, these being physical measurements and self-report. For the self-report, a structured interview was conducted. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The results indicated a lack of knowledge regarding nutrition and management of hypertension. The proportion of participants with uncontrolled hypertension was high (58.6%) and non-compliance with medication occurred frequently (58.1%). A third (28.7%) of the sample lacked knowledge of the complications of hypertension (28.7%). A community-based intervention, based on the results of the study, is recommended.
Highlights
Hypertension is a global, non-communicable chronic disease and is largely asymptomatic
Hypertension is a common condition in South Africa and is a risk factor for cerebrovascular incidents, myocardial infarction, left ventricular hypertrophy, renal disease and retinopathy (Steyn, 2005:80)
A validated questionnaire was used to gather data relating to hypertension knowledge, habit and lifestyle changes, quality of life and care, life threats and clinical detail with personal medical history
Summary
Hypertension is a global, non-communicable chronic disease and is largely asymptomatic. Besides being a heredity trait, obesity, unhealthy diet, diabetes mellitus, exces sive alcohol intake, physical inactivity and smoking are specific risk factors associated with hypertension (Depart ment of Health, 2003:1). SouthAfrica has experienced major changes in food consumption with traditional plant-based foods be ing replaced with a diet characterised by high fat, high sugar and energy dense with low fibre food This diet is strongly associated with the develop ment o f chronic cardiovascular disease. The formulated research question for the study was what is the knowledge regarding nutrition and hy pertension management practices of hypertensive adults attending primary health clinics in Ga-Rankuwa. The Health Promotion Model (Pender, Murdaugh & Parsons, 2002:60), focus ing on promoting personal health and wellbeing, is utilised as the theoretical foundation o f the study It consists of seven cognitive-perceptual factors and five modifying factors that predict and explain health behaviours. The modifying factors are the demographic and biological characteristics, interpersonal influence, situational influences and behavioural factors
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