Socio-cultural Barriers Research Articles

Physical exercise in Chilean breast cancer survivors: Qualitative study of barriers, facilitators and preferences.

Breast cancer survivors often experience pre and post-treatment physical and psychological symptoms, negatively affecting their quality of life. Regular physical exercise is associated with better quality of life and lower recurrence of cancer, and therefore all oncological patients are recommended to practice it in a regular basis. Despite this, breast cancer survivors have low adherence to physical exercise. The purpose of this study is to identify barriers, facilitators and preferences of Chilean breast cancer survivors to practice physical exercise. Phenomenological qualitative study of 12 in-depth interviews with adjuvant radiation therapy concluded at least three months ago. Breast cancer survivors ignored the benefits of physical exercise during and after treatment. The barriers were physical symptoms, psychological barriers, sociocultural barriers, health system barriers, disinformation and sedentary lifestyle. Facilitators were coping with physical symoptoms, psychological issues, having information and active lifestyle. The preferences were painless and familiar exercises. Preferred exercise was walking. Breast cancer survivors may adhere to physical exercise despite barriers when certain facilitators are present, which may be promoted by the health team when reporting the benefits of the physical exercise, prescribing personalized, safe and painless physical exercise and educating both patient and her family about the role of the physical exercise in cancer recovering process.

Barriers to modern contraceptive utilization in Ethiopia.

Contraception is a critical service for women to control their reproductive health, allowing them to determine the number and spacing of their children prevent unintended pregnancies, reduce the risk of morbidity and mortality from associated with childbirth, and reduce the likelihood of abortions. Despite its benefits, the utilization of modern contraceptive methods remains low in certain regions of Ethiopia, Particularly in Afar and Somali, which are also experiencing high fertility rates. However, there is a substantial gap in understanding the sociocultural barriers that hinder the adoption of modern contraception in these regions. This study aims to explore these barriers to contraceptive use among women of reproductive age in Afar and Somali regions, providing qualitative insights that are essential for designing effective strategies to improve contraceptive service utilization. Asequential mixed method approach was employed, including scoping review and qualitative interviews. Scoping review focused on qualitative or mixed-methods studies conducted in Ethiopia and published between 2013 and 2023 in English, Selecting 14 articles Additionally, qualitative data were collected from Afar and Somali regions through In-depth interviews with women aged 15-49 who are married or in consensual union, and key informant interviews with health extension workers and contraception providers at health center. A total of 20 in-depth interviews and 07 key informants were conducted. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. The integrated findings from the scoping review and qualitative study reveal various barriers and determinants influencing contraceptive use among women in Ethiopia. Barriers includes religious or cultural beliefs, myths and misconceptions, fear of side effects, lack of knowledge and misinformation, negative attitude towards contraceptives, partner opposition, socio-cultural factors, fear of being judged by family and friends, and lack of communication between husband and wife, husband altitude, distance from health facility, availability of service and different contraceptive choice, separate room for family planning services, and cost of contraceptive method and transportation. The scoping review corroborates these findings, emphasizing on the role of socio-demographic, economic, cultural, religious, health service, and knowledge-related factors. Higher education, urban residence, higher income, mass media exposure, spousal communication, family size, and access to quality health services were associated with increased utilization, while lack of awareness, misconceptions, myths, side effects, fear of infertility, partner opposition, social stigma, and cultural norms decreased utilization. The study recommended promoting contraceptive use, challenging socio-cultural norms through Social Behavioural Communication and Counselling (SBCC), engaging partners and community members, and improving the quality of care.

Three Delays Model in the Context of Maternal Mortality in Longido District, Tanzania

This study dealt with the three delays model in the context of maternal mortality in Longido District, Tanzania, using the descriptive correlational design. The study selected the district due to the highest maternal mortality rates and number of women giving birth to traditional birth attendants compared to other districts in Arusha. A sample of 311 respondents from 14 health facilities participated by filling out a questionnaire. Data analysis took place through descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Based on the findings, the study concluded that although respondents possessed essential knowledge to prevent maternal mortality, they also possessed negative opinions that could delay their actions against the maternal mortality. While women’s readiness to reach the healthcare facilities prevailed, male partners’ willingness to escort their wives to the healthcare facilities did not exist. Therefore, male-female partnerships in reaching healthcare support emerged as a challenge. Furthermore, the care received from medical facilities sounds unsatisfactory due to limited medical personnel, facilities, and equipment. Social cultural practices predicted the maternal mortality. Therefore, strengthening community awareness, addressing socio-cultural barriers and positivity in accessing services will alleviate delays and reduce maternal mortality. Enhancing family and spousal support towards decision-making and financial support will overcome barriers to care, improve maternal health and reduce the maternal mortality. Strengthening the health system by sustaining resources, accountability, and improved working environment are essential steps towards enhancing the quality of care and consequently reducing maternal mortality.

Telehealth for rare disease care, research, and education across the globe: A review of the literature by the IRDiRC telehealth task force

The International Rare Diseases Research Consortium (IRDiRC) Telehealth (TH) Task Force explored the use of TH for improving diagnosis, care, research, and education for rare diseases (RDs). The Task Force reviewed related literature published from January 2017 to August 2023, and identified various models and implementation strategies of TH for RD. The Task Force highlighted the reported value and benefits of using TH for RDs, along with the limitations and opportunities. The number of publications sharply increased since 2021, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the rapid adoption of TH in many healthcare settings. One of the major benefits of TH for RDs lies in its capacity to surmount geographical barriers, which helps in overcoming the constraints posed by limited numbers and geographical dispersion of specialists. This was evident during the pandemic when TH was used to maintain a level of continued medical care and research when face-to-face visits were severely restricted. TH, through which clinical research can be decentralized, can also facilitate and enhance RD research by decreasing burden, expanding access, and enhancing efficiency. This will be especially beneficial when coupled with the adoption of digital health technologies, such as mobile health (mHealth) and wearable devices for remote monitoring (i.e., surveillance of outpatient data transmitted through devices), along with big data solutions. TH has also been shown to be an effective means for RD education and peer mentoring, enabling local health care providers (HCPs) to care for RD patients, which indirectly ensures that RD patients get the expertise and multidisciplinary care they need. However, limitations and weaknesses associated with using TH for RD care and research were also identified, including the inability to perform physical examinations and build relationships with HCPs. Therefore, TH has been recommended as a complement to, rather than substitute for, face-to-face consultations. There is also a concern that TH may lead to an amplification of health disparities and inequities related to social determinants of health for those with RDs due to lack of access to TH technologies, inadequate digital literacy, and geographical, socio-cultural, and linguistic barriers. Finally, the Task Force also discussed evidence and knowledge gaps that will benefit from future research efforts to help advance and expand the use of TH for RD care, research, and education.

Obstacles and challenges of rural development in Afghanistan: examining problems and solutions

This study investigates the multifaceted challenges hindering rural development in Afghanistan, employing an IMRAD structure to present findings. The introduction outlines the significance of rural development, noting that approximately 71% of the Afghan population resides in rural areas, predominantly engaged in agriculture. The methods section details a comprehensive document analysis and literature review from 2020 to 2024, focusing on institutional, socio-cultural, economic, environmental, and infrastructural barriers. Results indicate that ineffective governance, centralization, and socio-cultural issues such as gender inequality and low educational attainment severely impede progress. Additionally, economic challenges, including high poverty rates and unemployment, exacerbate the situation. Environmental concerns like land degradation and inadequate infrastructure further threaten rural livelihoods. The discussion emphasizes the interconnectedness of these challenges, advocating for a holistic approach that includes decentralization, community engagement, and investment in sustainable agricultural practices. The conclusion presents strategic recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders, highlighting the necessity of a coordinated, community-driven approach to achieve sustainable rural development in Afghanistan. By addressing these interconnected barriers, Afghanistan can foster long-term growth, stability, and improved quality of life for its rural populations.

Navigating Challenges Resilience of Women Entrepreneurs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

This research paper examines how women entrepreneurs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa navigate the entrepreneurial ecosystem and social support structures. Grounded in an interpretivist research philosophy, the study delves into the subjective experiences of women entrepreneurs, highlighting their roles in fostering economic stability within their communities. A hybrid inductive and deductive research approach, combined with a multiple case study method, was employed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 18 purposively sampled women entrepreneurs. The analysis, using a hybrid thematic approach, identified key themes related to the resilience of women entrepreneurs in the face of social and financial challenges, social advocacy, and economic independence. The findings illustrate how these women overcome socio-cultural barriers and limited institutional support, leveraging their entrepreneurial ventures to create inclusive spaces and advocate for gender equality.

Exploring student-centered instructions in English as a foreign language (EFL) learning in Indonesia through trioethnographic reflections

This article examines professional development through the lens of trioethnographic reflections to enhance student-centered teaching practices. Trioethnography, derived from duoethnography, is a qualitative research method where two or more researchers engage in reflective dialogue to explore an issue. We collected data through four reflective conversations, guided by faculty advisors, during our teaching practicum. Our analysis identified three key themes from these dialogues: (1) reexamining our beliefs about student-centered instruction, (2) recognizing sociocultural barriers to this approach, and (3) sharing experiences of relearning teaching methods. These conversations created a safe space to exchange insights and collaboratively build understanding. The findings have significant implications for teachers and teacher education. First, teachers must continually reassess the beliefs and assumptions that underpin their teaching. Second, understanding students more deeply is crucial for effectively implementing student-centered teaching, especially in EFL contexts. Third, preservice teacher education should emphasize the importance of self-reflection and critical examination of teaching beliefs, fostering both personal and professional growth. Lastly, future research should narrow its focus on specific practical issues within student-centered EFL teaching to further enrich the field and improve teaching practices. Collaborative reflection should become a routine part of teacher education programs to better prepare future educators.

Barriers to Empowerment: Examining the Transition of Pakistani Women from Higher Education (HE) to Professional Life

Gender equality is essential for economic and societal advancement, as outlined in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 5. This research examines the obstacles that hinder women’s progression from higher education to empowerment in Pakistan. Using a comprehensive descriptive survey questionnaire, we collected quantitative data to gain insights from a diverse sample of various provinces. The survey consisted of two sections: background information and 25 constructs of barriers from the existing literature. Data analysis involving 399 respondents included descriptive and inferential statistics, cross-tabulation, and significance testing using non-parametric tests. The findings highlighted significant sociocultural, familial, and professional barriers, with regional disparities underscoring the need for targeted interventions. Women respondents consistently perceived barriers more keenly than men, underscoring the gender-specific nature of these challenges. This study emphasizes the need for focused policies and educational initiatives to address barriers and promote gender equality in Pakistan’s higher education and professional spheres.

Socio-Cultural, Educational, and Psychological Barriers in ESL Learning: A Qualitative Study of Senior High School Students

This qualitative study explores the complex issues faced by the Senior High School students in learning ESL. Using the interviews and focus group discussions, this study aims at finding out the students’ experience, perception and challenges relating to their English accent. Ten male and twenty female students from the socio culturally and linguistically diverse school in Cotabato City Division volunteered for the study, offering information on the socio cultural, educational, and psychological aspects affecting their ESL learning during the academic year 2022-2023. The study shows that low students’ interactions in English beyond the classroom, the preferred use of students’ native language patterns, and inadequate amounts of exposure to English contexts are specific socio-cultural factors. Learning difficulties include; the imbalance in teachers’ competency, instruction, and teaching methods, and student supplies. On the psychological level, students have anxiety, unstable motivation, and problems with self-efficacy, which provides a meaningful addition to learners’ difficulties. Thus, this study recommended the need to tackle these challenges by increasing the training of teachers, developing quality teaching and learning materials, and providing effective learning conditions. These include promotion of English in contextual setting, computer aided instruction, offering counseling and psychological services to boost the learners’ morale. The findings of this study are hoped to help educators, and relevant stakeholders understand the best practices on how to help ESL learner Senior High School Students to break barriers and succeed academically and in their future careers as the world becomes a global village.

Liderazgo del Personal de Enfermería en Unidades de Primer Nivel de Atención en Comunidades Indígenas

Leadership is one of the functions of the nursing professional, which equips nurses with the necessary qualities to manage resources, make decisions, and lead a team. When these functions are conducted in primary care units within Indigenous populations, nursing staff may face specific sociocultural and geographical barriers. Aim: to identify the leadership functions applied by nursing staff in health units in Indigenous populations. Methods: community case study following an ethnographic approach through semi-structured interviews with nursing staff and users, participant observation, and the use of field diaries. Results: specific leadership functions performed by nursing staff were identified, as well as some of the barriers they face, such as inadequate communication related to the native language, lack of community support networks, gender role gaps, and geographical barriers. Conclusions: the role of the nursing professional as a leader in primary care units is crucial; however, there are sociocultural and geographical barriers that limit these functions, making it essential to develop strategies to reduce these barriers.

Gender disparities among financial entrepreneurs: The case of hedge funds

ABSTRACT Hedge funds (HFs) operate as small and medium-sized enterprises and are managed by entrepreneurs. When it comes to gender, the HF industry is among the most unequal sectors. International associations tried to reduce this gap by creating entrepreneurial ecosystems tailored to women in finance. Such initiatives are ineffective if quality is not present. The market is quick to assess who will survive and who will not. If there is a gender gap, we must first assess whether it comes from differences in performance. Our results indicate that this is not the case, at least for equity HFs with global investment focus. Sociocultural factors are more likely the reason. Our findings should encourage women in finance to break sociocultural barriers and take on leadership responsibilities. Efforts should focus on encouraging women to join the finance industry at the earliest career stages. Efficient capital markets will then select the best managers, regardless of their gender.

“If you don't go to site, they call you a lazy person”: Drivers of women's participation in artisanal and small-scale mining: The case of rural northern Ghana

In recent years, women's involvement in informal artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) activities in sub-Saharan African countries have surged. While many studies have attributed the increased involvement of women in ASM to the rising economic hardship in rural landscapes, a deeper interrogation of the socioeconomic and sociocultural drivers of the surge in women in ASM remains underexplored. This study inquires as follows: has women's increased participation in ASM anything to do with socioeconomic factors, or sociocultural factors, or to both? The study draws on a qualitive case study research design involving in-depth interviews with 67 women miners in northern Ghana, one of the emerging ASM hotspots. It answers the question by analyzing (1) the socioeconomic drivers of women's participation in ASM, and (2) the sociocultural drivers of women's participation in ASM. This helps in identifying the contextual constraints to women's participation in ASM in Ghana and other regions in sub-Saharan Africa. Findings show that the socioeconomic drivers of women's participation in ASM are unemployment, increasing household needs, climate change effect on agriculture, and the quest to acquire physical assets. A key contribution of the study relates to how the local communities' sub-culture, social recognition for women who made it in ASM and marital challenges drive women's participation in ASM. Participation in ASM inures to women's empowerment in the long-run provided the sociocultural, financial, and technological barriers facing women miners are addressed. The findings underscore the urgent need for a robust policy on gender mainstreaming and the creation of a gender-sensitive mining environment alongside formalization of ASM activities in developing countries.

Transformative Learning With Mexican Cartel Members: An Exploration of Organized Crime Through Participatory Action Research in Prison

This article considers transformative education in prison as a tool to address cartel violence in Mexico. It begins by examining how the rise of democracy in Mexico is partially responsible for the expansion of organized crime. Data from a participatory action research project with twelve men incarcerated for cartel-related crimes is then used to explore the violence plaguing Mexico. Results emphasize the relevance of structural disparities and stigma as sociocultural barriers that favor the empowerment of organized crime. The article closes with reflections regarding the challenges for prison education in a country where cartels have significant control over the government.

Exploring comprehensive sexuality education experiences and barriers among students, teachers and principals in Nepal: a qualitative study

BackgroundComprehensive sexuality education (CSE) is essential in empowering adolescents with the knowledge and confidence to manage their sexual and reproductive health. Despite its recognized benefits, access to quality CSE remains limited, especially in low-income countries, where societal norms and structural barriers hinder effective delivery. The aim of this study is to investigate the experiences and perceptions among students, teachers, and principals in Nepal about comprehensive sexuality education.MethodsQualitative methods were used. 13 Semi-structured interviews and 1 focus group discussion were carried out with 15 teachers and principals working at higher secondary schools and two focus group discussions were conducted with a total of 13 adolescents. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data.ResultsFour themes were developed: Resistance to Teaching and Learning, Preparation and Engagement Strategies, Taboos and Silencing and Structural Barriers. Students, teachers, principals and students reported discomfort and embarrassment when discussing sensitive topics, with gender dynamics playing a significant role. Strategies like warm-up sessions and continuous interaction with students and parents were used to create a supportive learning environment. However, socio-cultural barriers and family attitudes continued to hinder open discussions about sexuality. Structural barriers, including the lack of formal training for teachers and inadequate instructional materials, further impeded effective CSE delivery.ConclusionThe experiences of CSE in Nepal among students, teachers and principals highlight significant barriers including cultural taboos, gender dynamics and insufficient resources. Addressing these barriers through comprehensive teacher training, curriculum reform, and societal engagement is critical to ensure access to CSE.

An Assessment of the Acceptability of Cervical Cancer Education Intervention Materials Among Healthcare Providers in Ghana.

Cervical cancer is currently the second leading cause of cancer death among women in Ghana. Previous studies have identified lack of awareness, lack of perceived susceptibility, and stigmatizing beliefs as significant sociocultural barriers to cervical cancer screening among Ghanaian women. The purpose of this study was to assess the acceptability of evidence and theory-based, culturally relevant cervical cancer education intervention materials among Ghanaian healthcare providers. Central-location intercept questionnaires were completed by providers (n = 60) in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. Providers reviewed a poster, an audio message, and a brief educational video. The variables assessed included the reaction to the materials, the ability of the materials to attract the attention of the intended audience, the ability of the materials to communicate the main point of the cancer education message, and the reaction to cultural characteristics of the materials. The mean age of the providers (n = 60) was 30.6years, and the majority (70.8%) were females. Most of the providers had a positive general reaction to the poster, audio message, and video. The majority found the materials to be motivating. Most of the providers found the information in the materials to be attention-getting, interesting, useful, direct/to the point, and related to someone like them. Very few providers (5%) indicated that they were confused by the images or messages used in the materials. The culturally relevant cervical cancer education materials were acceptable to Ghanaian healthcare providers. These materials may be effective in shared decision-making for cervical cancer screening.

Implementation and Effectiveness of Policies and Initiatives Promoting Girls' Academic Performance in Wajir County, Kenya

Purpose: Policy implementation and effectiveness in girls' education are crucial for advancing gender equality, and promoting social and economic development. Despite global efforts to promote gender equality in education, girls in Wajir face minimal enrolment, high dropout rates, and low academic performance. The study aimed to evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of policies and initiatives promoting girls' academic performance in Wajir County, Kenya. Methodology: The research adopted a descriptive research design to gather quantitative and qualitative data. The target population was 12,060 respondents comprised of 80 Principals, 274 teachers, and 11,704 students from Wajir County, public secondary schools. A study sample size of 388 was calculated using the Yamane method and was sampled using purposive, simple, and stratified random sampling. Data was collected using questionnaires for all respondents. Quantitative data was cleaned, coded, and analyzed descriptively and inferentially with SPSS. Descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentages, as well as mean and standard deviation, were used to describe the relationship between the study variables, while inferential analysis was based on the chi-square test. Results: The study found mixed perceptions regarding the implementation and effectiveness of educational policies and initiatives aimed at improving girls' education in Wajir County. While there is a consensus on the clarity of policy objectives, concerns remain about their relevance and effectiveness in addressing the specific needs of girls. Principals, in particular, expressed skepticism about the alignment of policies with improving academic performance. Conclusion: The study concludes that targeted interventions, improved resource allocation, and enhanced stakeholder collaboration are critical to overcoming the barriers faced by girls in education. The study recommends that there should be more communal support from stakeholders towards implementing the policies that reduce the socio-cultural barriers that affect girls’ education in ASAL regions.

Microfinance and Women Entrepreneurship with special reference to Bhopal

This paper examines the impact of microfinance on women entrepreneurs in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, with a focus on the successes, challenges, and opportunities within this domain. Microfinance has emerged as a pivotal tool for promoting economic empowerment among women, particularly in developing regions where financial exclusion remains a significant barrier. Through the lens of case studies, the paper highlights how access to micro-credit has enabled women in Bhopal to transform their entrepreneurial dreams into reality, thereby improving their economic status and contributing to the local economy. The paper also explores the persistent challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Bhopal, including limited access to finance, insufficient business skills, and socio-cultural barriers. The effectiveness of government schemes like the Stand-Up India and Mudra Yojana initiatives is assessed, revealing both the potential and the limitations of these programs in supporting women-led microenterprises.

Gender Equality in Cambodian Higher Education Institutions: A Case Study of the National University of Battambang

This study examines the gender distribution among students, faculty, and administrative staff at the National University of Battambang (NUBB). The research investigates the sociocultural, economic, and institutional barriers to gender equality at the university, assesses the effectiveness of existing gender equality policies and initiatives, and considers the role of university leadership in advancing gender equality and fostering an inclusive culture. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews. The findings reveal that the number of female students significantly exceeds that of male students, yet women constitute less than 25% of the faculty and administrative staff. Despite this disparity, NUBB's commitment to implementing gender equality policies and initiatives is commendable. The university's leadership is dedicated to these efforts and actively supports advancing gender equality, which bodes well for the future. The researchers offer practical recommendations to enhance gender equality at NUBB, contributing to broader efforts to promote gender equity in Cambodian higher education institutions. The results underscore the ongoing need for policy revisions and sustained efforts to address gender imbalances and create a more equitable academic environment.

Predictors and Outcome of Surgical Repair of Obstetric Fistula at a Private Hospital of Dhaka City

Background: Obstetric fistula remains a significant public health issue in low-resource settings, with high prevalence in countries like Bangladesh. The condition often results from prolonged, obstructed labor, compounded by socio-cultural factors such as early marriage, financial constraints, and lack of access to skilled birth attendants. This study aimed to explore the socio-demographic characteristics and surgical outcomes of women undergoing fistula repair at a private hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Methods: This observational descriptive study included 62 women who underwent obstetric fistula repair between September 2010 and September 2012. Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, fistula details, and surgical outcomes through a structured booklet completed at various stages of patient care. Surgical success, complications, and post-operative outcomes were analyzed to identify factors influencing recovery and success rates. Result: The study found that 100% of participants were married at an early age, with significant financial barriers reported by all. A majority (87.10%) had home deliveries attended by unskilled birth attendants. Surgical repair was successful in 88.71% of cases, with a small proportion (11.29%) of unsuccessful repairs. Residual stress incontinence was noted in 4.84% of participants. The mean hospital stay was 17.52 days, with 95.16% of participants requiring continuous catheterization for 7 to 10 days. Conclusion: The high success rate of surgical repairs is promising, but the persistence of socio-cultural barriers and residual complications highlights the need for improved access to maternal healthcare and enhanced post-operative care. Addressing these issues is critical for reducing the burden of obstetric fistula and improving outcomes for affected women.

P203 IMPACT OF IMPLEMENTING A COMMUNITY CARE STRATEGY TO REDUCE THE RISK OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN SANTANDER, COLOMBIA: PRELIMINARY RESULTS OF THE RE-HOPE STUDY

Background: Hypertension is the main risk factor of cardiovascular disease (CVD), affecting 1.28 billion adults and resulting in 1.16 million deaths. In Colombia, hypertension affected 7.8 million adults in 2019. Different sociocultural and health system-related barriers may interfere with hypertension management. Our aim was to determine the preliminary impact of this community-based strategy on the changes in hypertension control in Colombia. Methods The Re-Hope study is a community-based strategy to reduce CVD risk in 13 municipalities of Santander, Colombia. Nursing assistants referred patients to the cardiovascular risk program (CVRP), facilitated medical appointments, and provided health counseling. A longitudinal analysis was conducted on data from the first three follow-up visits. Included were adults >18 years with hypertension not enrolled in the CVRP. Standardized questionnaires gathered sociodemographic, medication, and lifestyle data. Anthropometric and blood pressure measurements were taken. Hypertension was defined as systolic BP >140 mmHg, diastolic BP >90 mmHg, self-reported hypertension, or antihypertensive medication use. Pharmacological adherence was assessed with the Morisky 4-item scale. Tobacco and alcohol use were categorized as never or current consumers. Blood pressure changes were evaluated with a paired t-test, and categorical variable changes with McNemar and Stuart-Maxwell tests. Analysis was done using Stata software. Results A total of 2,585 participants were included. The mean age was 65.1 years (SD 11.9) and 64.3% were women. After 6 months of follow-up, the mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure reduced 17.03 mmHg (SD 17.95) and 7.04 mmHg (SD 11.22), respectively. Hypertension control increased on 11.7%. Antihypertensive combination therapy increased by 4.4% for dual therapy and 4.6% for triple therapy. The low pharmacological adherence was reduced by 3.35%. Conclusions The implementation of a community-based care strategy in Santander at the first three visits achieved a relevant reduction of hypertension values and greater use of combined antihypertensive therapy. Continuation of the study is required to identify the total results.