A study to assess knowledge regarding hypertension among hypertensive clients in a selected urban slum of Kolkata

Abstract

Introduction: Hypertension, the most prevalent non-communicable disease is a major risk factor for cardio and cerebrovascular complications. Obtaining information from hypertensive patients about their knowledge on hypertension is important for effective management of the disease.

Aim: To assess knowledge about hypertension and its association with demographic characteristics of hypertensive people of an urban slum of Kolkata.

Methods: This was a descriptive study involving 100 hypertensive patients in the selected urban slum of Kolkata, West Bengal. A self- structured validated questionnaire was used to obtain information from hypertensive people. Knowledge regarding hypertension was assessed using a 25-item questionnaire and was scored as inadequate (<8), average (9-17) and adequate (>19). SPSS 16 was used for statistical analysis.

Results: Mean age of participants was 49.1yrs and most were male (52%), married (38%) and had a high school education (57%). The mean knowledge score was 10.3 (SD+ 2.43) and 56%, 38% and 6% of study participants had inadequate, average and adequate knowledge respectively. All demographic characteristics except marital status and religion had a significant association with knowledge score (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The participants had low knowledge score, and demographic characteristics were significantly associated with knowledge score. Health care providers should ensure in imparting knowledge regarding health maintenance and management.