Gender-Related Factors Influencing Hypertension Management among Patients Aged 18-49 Years in Western Kenya

The purpose of the study was to determine gender-related factors influencing hypertension management among patients aged 18-49 years in Western Kenya. This study enrolled 2031 hypertensive patients receiving care at the Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital. Data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires and patient records retrieval. All quantitative data was summarized using descriptive statistics, and associations detected by inferential statistics (ANOVA & chi-square). Findings showed that men sought diagnosis after 16.28 months, while women took 18.03 months, though the difference was not significant. Symptom prevalence varied, with men reporting higher rates of dizziness (53.1% vs. 37.8%, p = 0.014), blurred vision (36.7% vs. 31.6%, p = 0.011), and chest pain (50% vs. 12.2%, p = 0.000). Men visited hospitals less frequently (34.7% monthly vs. 15.3% biweekly, p = 0.000) but had better pharmacy access (44.9% vs. 18.4%, p = 0.019). Women monitored blood pressure more regularly (p = 0.005) and were more proactive in treatment changes (p = 0.009). Medication adherence (81.6%) and dietary changes (71.4%) were common self-care strategies, but exercise (51.0%) and stress management (45.9%) were less prioritized. Healthcare providers highlighted gender-sensitive care, noting that men preferred brief, action-based advice, while women engaged in detailed discussions and involved family members. Modern health tools, like mobile apps, were noted as beneficial for improving self-management. The study recommends tailoring healthcare practices to address gender-specific needs, strengthening collaborative care involving community and family support, and promoting digital tools for self-management. Training healthcare providers in gender-sensitive approaches and creating peer support networks can further improve care.