Level of Awareness of the Dangers of Hypertension among Patients Attending a Tertiary Hospital in South-South Nigeria

Background: The emerging epidemic of hypertension with its complications make it a global health issue. Awareness of the dangers of hypertension plays a crucial role in the uptake of healthy lifestyle needed for its prevention and control. The study assessed the level of awareness of the dangers of hypertension among patients. Materials and methods: It was a cross-sectional study conducted in the Family Medicine Clinic, Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, Nigeria. Participants were recruited using a systematic random sampling method. The interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data and data was analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solution version 23. The level of significance of analysis was set at p < 0.05. Results: The study had 235 adults with a mean age of 45.1 ± 13.7years. Participants' overall level of awareness of the dangers of hypertension was good (55%), average (33%) and poor (12%). The prevalence of hypertension was 29%. Less than half (41.7%) were aware that hypertension could be asymptomatic. Higher level of education, married, residing in urban area and a positive family history of hypertension were significantly associated with level of awareness of hypertension. Conclusion: An average proportion of the study participants had good knowledge of hypertension, and the prevalence of hypertension was 29%. There is a need to develop public awareness and education programs that promote routine blood pressure check and uptake of healthy lifestyle habits to aid prevention and control of hypertension.