Hypertension knowledge, attitudes and perceptions among adults in the Navrongo Health and Demographic Surveillance Site: A mixed methods analysis

Abstract Background This study assessed knowledge, behaviors, and perceptions towards hypertension following community dissemination on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk within the Navrongo Health and Demographic Surveillance Site in Northern Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional mixed methods study was conducted among middle aged men and women following education on CVD and their risk factors. Knowledge and attitudes of participants regarding hypertension were measured using a survey tool and the resultant data was analyzed with descriptive statistics. Focus group discussions (FDG) were used to assess perceptions of study participants. Recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded into themes using Nvivo 12 software before thematic analysis. Results A total of 350 participants (54% women) with a mean age of 50 ± 6 years took part in the survey while 40 took part in FGDs. The results showed that84% of participants had heard about hypertension, 70% attributed hypertension to an increase in blood pressure and could be caused by excess salt intake. Majority of the participants were aware that hypertension could be treated with hypertensive medication and that untreated or uncontrolled hypertension could result in adverse health consequences. Few participants had ever had their blood pressure measured and did not access screening or care services. Participants perceived the health system was inadequate to screen, treat and control hypertension. Conclusion Though, knowledge on hypertension was high, there was low access to screening and healthcare services. Community beliefs and perceptions strongly influence treatment, and control of hypertension. Effective community dissemination efforts addressing misperceptions could improve hypertension treatment and control.