Beliefs and misconceptions about hypertension disease: A qualitative study among patients in a peri-urban community in Ghana
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Date
2023
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Original Research Article
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to explore beliefs and perceptions about hypertension among patients
living with hypertension in a local district in the Eastern region of Ghana.
Methods: A descriptive qualitative approach was adopted, and the Health Belief Model was used
to guide the data collection, analysis, and organization of the study findings. Overall, seventeen participants were interviewed. In-depth interviews were conducted using a semistructured interview
guide. Participants were conveniently selected from a district local Government Hospital. Data
gathered were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results: Almost all the participants acknowledged hypertension as a severe but chronic illness
that can cause sudden death. They also identified that lifestyle practices and individual attitudes
were associated with the hypertension condition’s causes, management, and control. The findings
revealed several unscientific misconceptions and beliefs about hypertension, which could influence
their disease management and control decisions.
Discussion: Patients’ decisions on alternative treatment for hypertension are primarily based on
beliefs and misconceptions based on the information they receive from unregulated media and
peers. The prevention and control of hypertension should focus on behavior and lifestyle modification which needs reinforcement through health education and promotion.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Hypertension, beliefs, misconceptions, perceptions Ghana