Abstract

Hypertension is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, and its management requires both effective health-seeking behavior and lifestyle modification strategies. This study investigates the health-seeking behaviors and lifestyle modification strategies among hypertensive patients in Buea, Cameroon, aiming to understand how these factors influence the management and control of hypertension.

A cross-sectional descriptive study design was employed, involving 300 hypertensive patients receiving care at various health facilities in Buea. Data were collected through structured questionnaires that assessed patients’ health-seeking behaviors, including frequency of medical consultations, adherence to prescribed medications, and use of alternative therapies. The study also explored lifestyle modification strategies adopted by patients, such as dietary changes, physical activity, smoking cessation, and alcohol reduction.

The findings reveal that 65% of the participants regularly sought medical care for hypertension management, with 70% adhering to prescribed medications. However, 25% of the patients reported using alternative therapies such as herbal medicines, which sometimes conflicted with their prescribed treatments. Regular medical consultations were more frequent among patients with higher educational levels and those with a better understanding of hypertension and its complications.

In terms of lifestyle modifications, 60% of the patients reported making significant dietary changes, primarily reducing salt intake and incorporating more fruits and vegetables into their diets. Physical activity was reported by 50% of the patients, though the intensity and regularity of exercise varied. Smoking cessation was successfully achieved by 30% of the patients who were former smokers, while 40% reduced alcohol consumption. The study found that patients who received continuous counseling and education from healthcare providers were more likely to adhere to lifestyle modification strategies.

Barriers to effective hypertension management identified in the study included financial constraints, lack of access to healthcare facilities, and cultural beliefs that favored alternative therapies. The study also highlighted the importance of patient education, as those who were better informed about the risks of hypertension and the benefits of lifestyle modifications were more proactive in seeking medical care and making necessary lifestyle changes.

In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of regular medical consultations and adherence to lifestyle modifications in managing hypertension. While the health-seeking behaviors and lifestyle modification strategies among hypertensive patients in Buea show positive trends, there is still a need for enhanced patient education and support to overcome the identified barriers. Tailored interventions that address these challenges could significantly improve hypertension management outcomes in Buea, Cameroon.

Keywords

Hypertension, health-seeking behavior, lifestyle modification, medication adherence, alternative therapies, Buea, Cameroon, patient education, dietary changes, physical activity.