The Relationship Between Knowledge of Hypertension Complications and Medication Adherence Among Women Over 40 Years of Age in Ardimulyo Village, Malang Egency, East Java, Indonesia

Background: The incidence of hypertension in Ardimulyo Village, Singosari District, Malang Regency, is the highest in northern Malang, East Java, Indonesia, and exceeds the national rate. Only 11.8% of respondents in this village receive regular treatment for hypertension, and 83.3% of patients are unaware of its complications. Previous studies have shown inconsistent associations between knowledge of hypertension complications and medication adherence. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the association between these two variables. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Ardimulyo Village. The sample consisted of women aged over 40 years who had been diagnosed with hypertension by health workers, had received treatment within the last month, and met the inclusion criteria. The variables were the level of knowledge regarding hypertension complications and adherence to medication. Data were collected using a questionnaire, and the association between variables was analyzed using the chi-square test at a 95% confidence level. Results: The highest levels of knowledge regarding hypertension complications were found among participants aged 40–49 years (33.3%), those with a diploma or bachelor's degree (66.7%), and those who were employed (42.1%). Similarly, regarding medication adherence, the highest rates were found among the 40–49 age group (50%), those with a diploma or bachelor’s degree (83.3%), and those who are employed (52.6%). Knowledge of hypertension complications was significantly associated with adherence to antihypertensive medication (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Knowledge of hypertension complications is associated with adherence to antihypertensive medication. Improving knowledge of hypertension complications is essential for enhancing adherence to antihypertensive treatment.