International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) | Volume IX, Issue VIII, August 2022 | ISSN 2321–2705
Assessment of Hypertension Knowledge Among Adults Living in Owerri Metropolises
Chidozie Joachim Nwaokoro1; David Chinaecherem Innocent1*; Cosmas Nnadozie Ezejindu2; Advait Vasavada3; Stanley Chinedu Eneh4
1Department of Public Health, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State Nigeria
2Department of Public Health, Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria
3MP Shah Medical College, Jamnagar, India
4Department of Community Health, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
*Corresponding
Abstract:
Background: Hypertension is a serious public health issue and a major risk factor for a variety of other illnesses. The hazards of untreated hypertension, the benefits of better control, and poor management techniques are all obstacles to effective hypertensive care. The aim of the study was to assess the level of knowledge of hypertension among adults living in the Owerri Metropolis.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study of 201 respondents who were residents of Owerri Metropolis at the time of the study was conducted. Data was collected using a pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire. The data was examined with the SPSS version, and the chi-square test was performed to determine the link between demographic characteristics and hypertension knowledge.
Results: The study population consisted of 96 (48%) males and 105 (52%) females. 134 (69%) stated that blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg was normal. The main aggravating factors for hypertension identified by participants were excess weight 155 (77%), high salt intake 191 (98), excess alcohol consumption 159 (79%), smoking 181 (90) and excess thinking 129 (64). The respondents identified stroke at 94% (189), heart failure at 91% (183), and heart ache at 72% (145) as health conditions associated with hypertension by the respondents. Very few of the adults had a high (15%) level of knowledge of hypertension.
Conclusion: The respondents had enough awareness of hypertension, its consequences, and management options. Females aged 50 and older who are Christians from Igbo have a high level of understanding about hypertension. Furthermore, those without a tertiary degree had a higher level of knowledge. To enhance understanding and reduce the consequences of poorly treated hypertension, targeted health education programmes are urgently needed.
Keywords: Hypertension, Risk Factors, Knowledge, Blood Pressure, Adults, Lifestyle
I. INTRODUCTION
Hypertension is connected to cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, obesity, glucose tolerance, hyperuricemia, and atherosclerosis [1]. At different rates, hypertension alters the shape and functions of small muscle arteries, arterioles, and other blood vessels and can harm a range of target organs, including the kidney, brain, and eye. It