Original Research Paper

Knowledge Regarding Risk Factors Of Hypertension Among Non-healthcare Workers Working In Hospital.

Abstract :

Introduction: Hypertension is one of the major contributors to the global disease burden. Reviews have shown that non-healthcare workers are aware about frequently occurring conditions like common cold, fever, diarrhea, dehydration etc. along with diabetes and hypertension; but there is dearth of data regarding knowledge of risk factors of chronic illnesses in this group that motivated the researcher to take up a study with the objective of assessing the knowledge level regarding risk factors of hypertension among non-healthcare workers in selected hospitals of Pune city and its association with selected demographic variables. Materials and Methods: Non- experimental descriptive design was adopted, 200 (125-males and 75-females) non-healthcare workers were selected through non-probability purposive sampling technique using structured questionnaire consisting of 15 items. Conceptual framework used for the study was Penders health belief model. Findings: Majority 122 (61%) of the participants had average knowledge regarding risk factors of hypertension, and 19 (9.5%) had poor knowledge. Itemized analysis of the data brought out the fact that 47 (23.5) participants were not aware regarding the information that hypertension runs in family; 58 (29%) participants did not have adequate knowledge that females are more prone to develop hypertension during menopause and 31 (15.5%) participants did not have knowledge concerning consumption of oral contraceptive pills that can develop hypertension. There was significant association of knowledge (P value < 0.001) regarding risk factors of hypertension with occupation, work experience and institutional health check-up and demographic variables of age, gender, marital status, educational qualification, habits and type of diet are not significantly associated (P value = > 0.05). Conclusion: Hypertension is very common non-communicable disease yet there is knowledge deficit among non-healthcare workers in certain areas that includes non-modifiable and lifestyle factors.

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