Knowledge regarding Hypertension and its associated Risk Factors among Residents of a Sub-metropolitan City, Nepal

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Hypertension is a major public health concern that substantially increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and kidney disease. Despite its serious consequences, many individuals have limited awareness of the condition because it usually presents without symptoms. Thus, this study was conducted to assess knowledge regarding hypertension and its associated risk factors among residents of a selected ward of a sub-metropolitan city.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 280 adults aged 30–60 years residing in Ward No. 4 of Janakpurdham Sub-metropolitan City, Nepal. Participants were selected using convenient non-random sampling. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a modified structured questionnaire, and blood pressure was measured using a validated automated digital sphygmomanometer. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, with a p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: Of the 280 participants, 64.2% were female and 56.4% were aged 30–40 years. Normal blood pressure was observed in 166 (59.3%) participants, while 64 (22.9%) had hypertension and 50 (17.9%) had hypotension. Regarding hypertension knowledge, 27.5% identified cigarette smoking and 24.6% identified salt intake as major risk factors, while 34.3% recognized that consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products could help lower blood pressure. No significant association was found between blood pressure status and gender (p=0.183) or educational level (p=0.86).

Conclusions: Knowledge regarding hypertension among the study participants was inadequate, with notable misconceptions about blood pressure and its management. No significant association was observed between blood pressure status and gender or educational level. Community-based health education programs are needed to improve hypertension awareness and prevention.