Predictors of Preventive Practices on Hypertension Among Adults in Ikoyi Nigeria

Abstract

Background: hypertension is one of the leading causes of disability and death worldwide. But despite this fact, adult's rarely gives deserved attention to preventive practices on hypertension. Objective: to examine the predictors of preventive practices on hypertension among adults in Ikoyi, Nigeria. Method: the survey was a descriptive and cross-sectional design, a random sampling technique was used to select N=149 adults from a cluster of the participants. A self-administered questionnaire with validity and reliability established was used to collect data on predictors that influence compliance with preventive practices on hypertension. Chi-square statistical model was used to test the stated hypotheses at p < 0.05. Results: the finding indicated that participants seldom checked their blood pressure unless on consultation in the health institutions. Variables' such as age, gender, marital status, education attainment, knowledge of the risk factors and knowledge of complications of hypertension, were all predictors of preventive practices on hypertension except occupational status that was not significant at X 2 =11.6, df=4, p= 0.060 in this study. Conclusion: adult should not wait to attain definite age bracket or belong to a status before engaging in active preventive practices on hypertension considering the associated peril and complications of the disease.