Department of Physiology, B. J. Medical College, Ahmedabad
Online published on 17 July, 2012.
There is an increase in prevalence of hypertension all over the world as well as India. Hypertension affects almost all body organs and systems. Hypertension can be managed by using non-pharmacological measures as well. Objective of this study was to assess knowledge, attitude and practice of non pharmacological measures to control hypertension in geriatric persons. A total of 50 patients were interviewed. Their demographic details and responses to the questions were noted in the questionnaire.
About half of the study population was suffering from hypertension. Knowledge and practice of salt intake to control hypertension was satisfactory. But knowledge about correct level of blood pressure was lacking in 70% of study population. Knowledge about weight reduction, regular exercise, fruit intake and hypertension was poor. About half of the study population said that blood pressure can be controlled using drugs alone i.e. they were not aware of nonpharmacological measures.
