Among 150 outpatients with arterial hypertension, the mean knowledge score was 82.3%, with higher educational level and use of specific medications correlating with better knowledge.
Observational (n=150)
No
Hypertensive patients in a tertiary outpatient setting have generally good knowledge about their condition, though gaps remain regarding asymptomatic presentation and lifestyle factors, highlighting the need for targeted education.
Abstract Introduction Arterial hypertension (AH) is the most important modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and premature mortality worldwide. Awareness of AH is essential for effective management, as it represents the first step in the care cascade: diagnosing the condition and informing the patient, initiating treatment, and achieving blood pressure control. Objective The primary aim of this study is to assess the level of knowledge among ambulatory patients with AH seen in the outpatient service of our tertiary center, and to examine correlations between patient awareness and several basic clinical parameters. Methodology A prospective observational study was conducted from August to October 2025, including all hypertensive patients attending our outpatient service. AH knowledge was assessed using a 12-item "Yes/No/I don’t know" questionnaire covering disease causes, complications, and treatment. Correct answers scored 1 point; incorrect or "I don’t know" scored 0. Total scores were categorized using a modified Bloom’s taxonomy: 75% good knowledge, 50–74% moderate, and 50% poor. Results The study included 150 patients with AH, with men slightly predominating (52.7%). The mean age was 64.45 ± 10.6 years. At presentation, mean systolic pressure was 140.7 ± 6.1 mmHg and mean diastolic pressure 85.7 ± 9.4 mmHg. Based on patient history, the highest reported pressures averaged 182.5 ± 26.4 mmHg systolic and 104.9 ± 15.8 mmHg diastolic. The mean duration of AH was 10.6 ± 9.2 years. Table 1 summarizes patient knowledge about AH. Overall knowledge was good; however, notable gaps were observed. Nearly half of patients did not know that AH can be asymptomatic, one-fourth were unaware that antihypertensive therapy must continue even without symptoms, and about one-third did not recognize the impact of alcohol and tobacco on blood pressure. More than 85% answered the remaining questions correctly. The mean total score was 82.3% ± 13.9%, consistent with a good level of knowledge. Table 2 presents the correlations between AH knowledge scores and various clinical and demographic parameters. Educational level, as well as the doses of ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and spironolactone, showed a statistically significant positive correlation with knowledge levels. Conclusion Patients attending a tertiary outpatient service demonstrated generally good knowledge of AH, likely reflecting increased awareness from regular visits at a tertiary center. Notable gaps remained regarding asymptomatic disease, therapy adherence, and lifestyle factors. Higher educational level and the use of medications such as higher dose of ACEI, calcium channel blockers or spironolactone for more severe AH were associated with better knowledge, likely because these patients recognize the seriousness of their condition. These findings highlight the importance of targeted patient education.For image description, please refer to the figure legend and surrounding text. For image description, please refer to the figure legend and surrounding text.
Kelmendi et al. (Mon,) conducted a observational in Arterial hypertension (n=150). Educational level and medication use was evaluated on Level of knowledge about arterial hypertension. Among 150 outpatients with arterial hypertension, the mean knowledge score was 82.3%, with higher educational level and use of specific medications correlating with better knowledge.