Blood Pressure Control Among Hypertensive Patients in University of Gondar Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross Sectional Study

Hypertension is a common health problem worldwide. It doubles risk of stroke, myocardial infarction, chronic kidney diseases and peripheral arterial disease. Good control of hypertension is important to decrease these complications. For Good control, life style modification (low salt diet, exercise, weight reduction and cessation of smoking) and Different antihypertensive medications are used. The medicines have to be taken adherently and one has to be consistent in life style modifications. Here the blood pressure control status of hypertensive patients on treatment was assessed. Cross sectional study was conducted collecting data using a pretested questionnaire among all hypertensive patients on treatment at the cardiovascular follow up clinic of University of Gondar Hospital from March 1, 2016 to October 30, 2106. A consecutive of 310 hypertensive patients on pharmacologic therapy for at least 6 months were included. Good blood pressure control was defined as BP < 150/90 for those aged 60 years or above and <140/90 if younger than 60 years. Data was entered and analyzed by using SPSS version 20. Results are depicted descriptively using tables and graphs. Logistic regression was used to evaluate associations.A total of 310 participants (118 males CI (1.46-8.8)) and poor adherence to antihypertensive drugs (OR: 6.6; CI (1.5-28.5)) were associated with poor BP control. However duration of hypertension, type or number of antihypertensive medications used were not associated with BP control. Patient older than 60years had good BP control. More than one third of patients have poor BP control. Poor blood pressure control was associated with poor adherence to antihypertensive medications & the presence of diabetes. However, elderly people (≥ 60years) were found to be associated with good BP control.