TDNet Discover

Abstract Background: Hypertension is a chronic medical condition that affects almost half of the US adult population. Current data shows that 50% of individuals diagnosed with hypertension are considered uncontrolled. Heart failure, ischemic stroke, and intracerebral hemorrhage are among the many adverse outcomes that are associated with uncontrolled high blood pressure. Purpose: This research was intended to gain a better understanding of the hypertension and health literacy level of individuals with hypertension as well as the potential effect on medication adherence. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey study was conducted to investigate adult hypertensive patients (>18yo) knowledge and health literacy as well as medication adherence. A mix of convenience sampling and snowball sampling through social media outlets was utilized for 6 weeks. The study contained demographics (age, gender, ethnicity, and education level), hypertension knowledge (risk factors, treatment, and sequelae), and a modified health literacy tool (AHRQ). Results: Twenty-two participants met the inclusion criteria and completed the survey in its entirety. All of the participants were white and approximately 90% were female. In addition, approximately 77% of the participants were between the ages of 40-69. The hypertension knowledge score resulted in 13/22 (59.1%) participants having moderate to high hypertension health literacy. The modified AHRQ survey resulted in 20/22 (91%) participants having moderate to high hypertension health literacy. For medication adherence, 18 (82%) responded they never miss a dose. There were no correlations found between hypertension knowledge or health literacy with medication adherence. v Conclusion: The majority of respondents in this research with hypertension have an adequate knowledge of their disease state and health literacy. In addition, we found no significant correlation between hypertension knowledge or health literacy with medication adherence. We suggest further research with a larger sample size to improve the accuracy of the study's findings.