Awareness and Healthcare Adherence of Adult Patients with Hypertension

Abstract: Hypertension is a significant public health issue in a highly urbanized city in Central Philippines, ranking as the fourth leading cause of morbidity and the leading cause of mortality in 2023. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and healthcare adherence among adult hypertensive patients. A descriptive research design was used, with data collected from 117 hypertensive adults selected through purposive sampling. Findings revealed that most participants were older, with a higher prevalence among females and individuals with lower education levels. While patients showed a moderate level of awareness regarding medication adherence, there was a significant gap in understanding the complications of hypertension, particularly life-threatening conditions like heart attacks and strokes. The study also found that awareness of hypertension risks varied by income and education level. Despite good adherence to medication, patients showed limited engagement in lifestyle changes such as exercise and stress management. Statistical analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between awareness and adherence to healthcare guidelines. Based on these findings, the study recommends targeted interventions to improve awareness and healthcare adherence, especially for older adults, females, and individuals with lower education. These interventions should include health education, lifestyle workshops, and community-based programs to enhance comprehensive hypertension management and reduce complications. A budget allocation for these initiatives is proposed to ensure their successful implementation. Keywords: Awareness, healthcare adherence, hypertension