Abstract
Background: Hypertension is a leading global health concern, and its effective management relies heavily on consistent patient self-care. This study aimed to assess self-care behaviors and identify associated factors among hypertensive patients in tertiary care hospitals in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
Methods: A hospital-based, cross-sectional study was conducted over three months among 196 hypertensive patients recruited from inpatient and outpatient departments using convenience sampling. Data were collected through interviewer-administered questionnaires covering demographic characteristics, medication adherence, lifestyle practices (diet, physical activity, smoking, alcohol use), stress management, blood pressure monitoring, and knowledge of hypertension. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS version 22.0.
Results: The study included 196 participants (60.2% male; mean age group 45 years [35.7%]). While all patients (100%) were on antihypertensive medication and 55.1% reported always taking it as prescribed, comprehensive self-care was suboptimal. Only 40.3% engaged in daily physical activity, and 39.8% often followed a low-salt diet. A majority (60.2%) were smokers, though alcohol use was nil. Regular weight monitoring was low (24.5%), and 19.9% reported poor stress management. Although 90.3% understood the importance of blood pressure control, 34.7% were unaware of potential complications like heart disease or stroke. Most patients (85.2%) attended regular follow-ups, and 75.5% reported no difficulties following their treatment plan.
Conclusion: This study reveals a significant gap between medication adherence and the adoption of broader lifestyle modifications among hypertensive patients in Rawalpindi. Suboptimal practices in physical activity, diet, and stress management highlight the need for comprehensive, patient-centered educational programs and health system interventions to promote holistic self-care and prevent long-term complications.