Perceived facilitators and barriers influencing lifestyle modification among adults with cardiovascular disease attending a cardiac clinic at a referral hospital in northern Tanzania: An exploratory qualitative study

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with lifestyle modification being a cornerstone in their management. However, qualitative evidence on the influences that facilitate or hinder lifestyle modification practices among patients attending cardiac clinics in Tanzania remains limited. Understanding these influences is important for designing feasible, context-appropriate cardiovascular risk-reduction interventions. This study aimed to explore perceived facilitators and barriers influencing lifestyle modification among adults with cardiovascular disease attending the cardiac clinic at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC). An exploratory qualitative study was conducted between May and July 2024 among adults with CVD attending the KCMC cardiac clinic. Ten (10) participants were purposively recruited to capture variation in age, sex, and cardiovascular diagnosis. The final sample was guided by thematic saturation, reached after eight interviews and confirmed through two additional interviews. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed manually using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis. The analysis generated two themes supported by sub-themes: (1) facilitators of lifestyle modification, comprising perceived benefits and outcomes; social, family, and spiritual support; and medical advice and counselling; and (2) barriers to lifestyle modification, comprising lack of consistent motivation; psychological factors; physical limitations and health setbacks; social and environmental barriers; lack of guidance; misconceptions and beliefs; and financial constraints. Despite facing cultural, psychological, physical, and financial barriers, patients demonstrated willingness to adopt healthier lifestyles when supported by healthcare providers, family members, and personal motivation. These findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive, patient-centered interventions that integrate lifestyle counseling, psychosocial support, and community involvement to improve long-term cardiovascular outcomes.