Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Regarding Hypertension among a Sample of Students in University of Karbala

Abstract

Background: Hypertension/ (HTN) is one of the most common health problems in developed and underdeveloped countries and affects approximately 1 billion people worldwide and it causes 7.1 million (1/3rd) of global preventable premature deaths annually. It is called the silent killer which is usually diagnosed incidentally. Although hypertension is a preventable and treatable condition but without treatment it leads to serious and life threatening complications such as heart, kidney and brain disorders which in most cases result in patient's disability. Prevention, plays significant role in controlling this disease which is achieved by increasing the knowledge and awareness of the public and changing their attitude and practice.

Objective: The main objective of this study was to determine the knowledge and attitude about hypertension in students of University of Karbala.

Methodology : Across-sectional study was conducted in Iraq ,The place where data collection and were carried out (University of Karbala) . The study consists of (400) students and the data were collected by direct interview with student by using a questionnaire form.

Result: - One hundred twenty six (31.5%) hypertension patients were included in the study. Total sample in this study 400 students ( 144 female and 256 male). More than 50% of students were in the age group of 18-20 years .The assessment of participants according to Knowledge of Hypertension scores was ( 32%) Good &acceptable while more than (60%) had very good attitude e scores regarding hypertension

Conclusion: - The overall knowledge was more than 36% very good while (32 %) of cases had accept knowledge scores, A better educational program on hypertension should be conducted to improve awareness ’ attitude, practice towards Hypertension by using mass media and health education because is hypertension silent killer and may be without symptoms. Obtaining information about the level of awareness from the general public and patients is the first step in formulating a preventive program for the disease.

Keywords:- Hypertension , Knowledge, Attitude, University of Karbala.