A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICES (KAP) AND RAISING AWARENESS AND CONTROL OF HYPERTENSION

P. Lazaru, J. N. Suresh Kumar, K. Sai Teja Sree, S. K. Mansoor, M. Siva Kumar*, S. Venkata Sakshi and S. K. Jameela

ABSTRACT

Background: Hypertension is undoubtedly the leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. Poor awareness, non-compliance with medications, and non-exclusive adherence to recommended lifestyles limit the treatment of hypertension, even though it has effective treatment. This study will assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding hypertension among patients, as well as the impact of awareness programs on their effectiveness regarding improvements in hypertension management. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in Yallamanda village, enrolling 200 hypertensive patients. Baseline KAP assessments were performed using structured questionnaires, and blood pressure measurements were recorded. Educational interventions were implemented to improve hypertension awareness, and follow-up assessments were conducted after three months to evaluate changes in KAP scores and blood pressure control. Statistical analyses, including T-tests, were performed to determine significant changes before and after the intervention. Results: The study included 200 patients, with 66.5% males and 33.5% females. The majority (34.5%) were aged 51–60 years, with 67% residing in rural areas. Literacy rates were 82.5%, and lifestyle factors such as smoking (43.5%) and alcohol consumption (41%) were prevalent. Post-intervention results showed a significant improvement in KAP scores and better blood pressure control, highlighting the effectiveness of targeted awareness programs. Conclusion: Increasing hypertension awareness through structured education programs significantly enhances patient knowledge, improves attitudes, and encourages better management practices. These findings emphasize the need for continuous community-based interventions to reduce hypertension-related complications and improve overall public health outcomes.

Keywords: Hypertension, Knowledge-Attitude-Practice (KAP), Awareness, Blood Pressure Control, Lifestyle Modifications, Patient Education, Cardiovascular Health, Public Health Intervention, Rural Population, Hypertension Management.