Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding Hypertension in a Rural Community

Background: Hypertension is a major public health challenge globally, especially in rural communities where knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) regarding its prevention and management are often inadequate. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices regarding hypertension among rural residents in Sreepur, Gazipur, Bangladesh. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 292 participants selected using convenient sampling. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire, covering demographic characteristics, hypertension awareness, knowledge of risk factors, attitudes towards treatment and practices related to hypertension management. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Results: Among participants, 58.2% were female and the majorities were aged 30-39 years. About 90.4% were aware of their hypertension status and 50.3% had a family history of hypertension. While 63.7% believed antihypertensive drugs effectively control blood pressure, only 35.3% were currently on medications. Awareness of risk factors were low, only 20.9% identified hereditary, 14% identified obesity and 18.2% recognized tobacco use as risk factors. Additionally 75.7% reported using added salt in meals and 19.2% were current smokers. Regular medications adherence was reported by only 22.3% and 52.4% admitted irregular intake of antihypertensive medications. Conclusion: Despite high awareness of hypertension, there are significant gaps in knowledge, attitudes and practices related to risk factors, lifestyle modifications and medications adherence. Targeted community-based interventions, health education programs and improved access to healthcare services are essential to improve hypertension management in rural Bangladesh.