Lifestyle Modification among Hypertension Patients in Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife

Hypertension remains a leading contributor to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide.This cross-sectional study at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTH), Ile-Ife, Nigeria, surveyed 303 hypertensive patients to assess socio-demographics, knowledge and practices around hypertension management, and lifestyle modification.66.01 % of respondents were male; most (79.20 %) were aged 31-65 years.While 40.60 % correctly identified elevated diastolic/systolic readings as hypertension, misconceptions persisted: 49.50 % incorrectly believed frying was suitable, and only 33.00 % selected boiling/grilling as preferable cooking methods.Regular exercise was reported by 34.03 %, and 65.97 % did not engage in any.Smoking was prevalent (66.01 %), and 53.80 % consumed >2 alcoholic drinks/day.Medication non-adherence was common: 42.90 % frequently or always forgot doses.These findings underscore critical gaps in patients' knowledge and practices.We recommend implementing tailored educational interventions-incorporating brief motivational interviewing, integrated smoking-cessation and alcohol-reduction counseling, and adherence support tools (e.g.pillboxes, SMS reminders)-to improve blood pressure control and reduce cardiovascular risk.