Knowledge and perception of hypertension among academic staff of Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract Background Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a prevalent chronic health condition that poses significant risks to individuals and public health. It is a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes, and it is associated with various complications. Academics, who play a crucial role in the education and development of students, are not exempt from the potential impact of hypertension on their health and well-being. Aim: This study aimed to determine the knowledge and perception of hypertension among academic staff at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), in Imo State. Methods Study design: Descriptive cross-sectional survey (March–June 2023). Sample size: 333 academic staff, derived from Taro Yamane for N = 1,200 with 10% non-response added. Sampling technique: Multistage sampling (4 of 9 faculties selected by simple random sampling; departments selected by simple random sampling; academic staff selected by systematic random sampling from departmental staff lists). Instrument for data collection: Pre-tested structured questionnaire (four sections: socio-demographics, knowledge, perception, and preventive practices). Data analysis: Data was cleaned and analysed in SPSS v23.0; descriptive statistics summarised outcomes; chi-square (χ²) tests examined associations between knowledge and preventive practices and between perception and preventive practices; α = 0.05. Findings The findings revealed that all participants were familiar with the term “hypertension”, and while 78.4% correctly identified the normal range for blood pressure in adults as 120/80 mmHg, 39.6% could not recognise that hypertension can be asymptomatic. However, a majority of 79.3% were aware of complications such as heart diseases and stroke, with positive perceptions that exercise (61.26%) and healthy diets (61.3%) can aid in the prevention of hypertension. Meanwhile, only 33.33% consistently consumed healthy diets. A significant association was found between knowledge, perception, and preventive practices for hypertension (χ2 = 7.213, p = 0.007). Conclusion Although academic staff at FUTO displayed a high level of awareness and generally positive perceptions of hypertension, gaps in knowledge and inconsistent preventive practices remain. Targeted educational interventions and workplace wellness programmes are needed to promote healthy lifestyles and reduce hypertension-related risks among academic staff.