Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a major public health challenge in both developing and developed countries. Raising awareness of the management of hypertension is one of the focuses of primary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aim of this study was therefore to assess attitude, self-care practices and medication adherence in hypertensive patients attending NCD clinic in Salumbar district hospital which caters markedly to tribal population. Materials and Methods: It was hospital based cross‑sectional study. Purposive sampling was done for 380 samples over a period of 3 months. Semi-structured pre tested questionnaire was used to assess attitude and self-care practices, Morisky scale (MMAS-8) was used to assess medication adherence. Results: Out of 380 subjects, majority were female 226 (59.4%). In our study 138 controlled and 242 were uncontrolled hypertensive. Out of total subjects 32.1% were taking excessive salt. Majority (97.6%) of patients had a positive attitude but had poor self-care practices. Nonadherence to antihypertensive medication were more among uncontrolled hypertensive subjects (85.5%). Attitude and adherence were statistically significant. Conclusion: In our study despite having a positive attitude towards hypertension management, patients at Salumbar district hospital exhibit poor self-care practices and medication adherence, especially among uncontrolled hypertensive individuals. Addressing these gaps is crucial for improving blood pressure control and reducing cardiovascular risk. Tailored interventions focusing on education, support, and behaviour change are needed to bridge this divide and enhance outcomes for hypertensive patients, with great emphasis on tribal population

Description

Hypertension is a major public health challenge in both developing and developed countries [1]. Hypertension is defined as the blood pressure ≥140/90 mm Hg in all adults in the office or clinic following repeated examination.(2) It is responsible for 57% of all stroke deaths and 24% of all coronary heart disease deaths in India. Overall prevalence of Hypertension in India is 29.8% according to Anchala et.al (3) Furthermore, the age-standardized prevalence of hypertension in India was 32.8% in men and 29.7% in women(4).