Patients. comprehension of arterial hypertension and its management versus blood pressure control

Abstract

This paper aims to evaluate the comprehension of hypertensive patients of their condition and its management through health practices recognized by the Health Secretariat of the city of Curitiba and adopted in the Basic Health Unit .Vista Alegre.. The methodology used included collection of data about health actions promoted by the Unit, informal interviews with health professionals about how Hypertension Programs work and interviews based on a questionnaire with 50 patients participating in the Hypertension Program, selected and approached in the Health Unit or in household visits, who had their blood pressure taken after the interview. Thirty eight percent could not define hypertension, 72% assumed that nervousness or preoccupation were causes of hypertension, 84% mentioned stroke as consequence of high blood pressure, most of patients knew their medication and how to take it, 41% admitted forgetting to take their medication occasionally or often, 8% revealed not to take it correctly, 10% felt that not taking it sometimes does not make difference. Great part of those not taking their medication declared that this happens because they do not remember to take it, not for lacking it. Two thirds had unfavorable dietary habits and 52% did not engage in physical exercise but most believed that diet and exercise help controlling high blood pressure. Ninety six percent agreed that loosing weight also helps, but 72% were overweight. Only 13 (26%) had normal blood pressure; 18% presented with severe hypertension and 20% with moderate hypertension. Analysis of the collected data showed that many patients are unable to define hypertension but know how to control it and are aware of its consequences. The excuses offered for not adapting to changes in their life stile were lack of time, stimulation and proof of benefits.