Study to Assess the Knowledge Regarding Hypertension among Adults of Selected Rural Community

Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood against the walls of blood vessels, and the magnitude of this force depends on the cardiac output and the resistance of the blood vessels. Hypertension is defined as having a blood pressure higher than 140 over 90 mmHg. High blood pressure affects millions--even children and teens.

A descriptive study was conducted in a selected village named Holi. at district Ambala, Haryana with an objective to assess the knowledge regarding hypertension among adults and to find out the association of knowledge of adults regarding hypertension with selected variables

Survey approach and descriptive research design was used to conduct the present study. Convenience sampling technique was used to select the sample size of 100 adults who were between the age group of 30–50 years. Knowledge of study sample regarding concept, risk factors, signs and symptoms, prevention, control, complication and treatment of hypertension were assessed through self-administered questionnaire.

The study findings revealed that more than half respondents (62%) had poor knowledge score, 36% had average knowledge, and very few (2%) had good knowledge while none of the sample had excellent knowledge regarding hypertension. The level of knowledge of the selected sample was significantly associated with their educational status and dietary salt intake.

Since the study showed that maximum adults had poor knowledge regarding hypertension so the nurses are in key position to educate the people about various aspects of hypertension through public awareness programme to improve their health status and bring down the rate of mortality and morbidity among the population.