Abstract TAC137: Prevalence of Hypertension, Barriers to Care and Effectiveness of a Multi-strategic Approah in Improving Hypertension Management and Control in Rural and Conflict-affected Communities in Cameroon

Introduction: Hypertension is a growing public health problem in rural communities where access to care remains critically low. This situation is even more critical in conflict-affected communities in Cameroon, where the ongoing conflict may increase the risk of developing hypertension among the local populations. The objectives of this study were to assess the burden of hypertension, explore barriers to hypertension control and evaluate the effectiveness of a multi-strategic approach in improving hypertension management and control in three rural and conflict-affected communities in Cameroon. Hypotheses: The burden of hypertension in rural and conflict-affected communities in Cameroon is high. Multiple barriers to hypertension management and control exist. A multi-strategic approach can reduce this burden and improve hypertension care and control. Methods: Using mixed methods, we conducted a study in three communities affected by the sociopolitical conflict in Cameroon. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence of hypertension. Blood pressure measurements were done to diagnose hypertension. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among rural primary healthcare workers and people living with hypertension in the study sites to explore barriers to hypertension management and control. The was followed by a community-based intervention using a multi-strategic approach which included health education, screening and treatment, healthcare workers training and development of supportive resources. Outcomes measured were blood pressure control, participants' awareness and knowledge of hypertension, adherence to treatment, follow-up visits and healthcare worker knowledge at 6 months and 12 months. Results: We found an overall high prevalence of hypertension (30.9%) and hypertensive urgency (18.2%). Barriers to hypertension management and control included inconsistent supply of medications, limited choices of antihypertensive medications, financial challenges, unhealthy lifestyles, increased socioeconomic stress from conflict, unavailability of specialised services, limited healthcare worker knowledge and low awareness of the consequences of hypertension. There was a statistically significant improvement in all outcomes at 6 and 12 months. Conclusion: The burden of hypertension in rural and conflict-affected communities is high, and multiple barriers to care exist. A multi-strategic approach can effectively address this gap in hypertension care.