Awareness, Knowledge and Utilization of Hypertension Management Techniques among Rural Dwellers in Ijebu-North East Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

The increasing occurrence of hypertension and its position is a significant threat to CVD which make it the world’s leading cause of morbidity and death. Knowledge about CVD and the main risk factor such as hypertension and its treatment in rural areas is minimal in Nigeria as regards its impact on rural dwellers and agricultural production. Hypertension is one of the recognized heart diseases that are suspected to be complications leading to stroke or heart failure and the cause of today’s Nigerian “unexpected death” syndrome. The study assessed the awareness, knowledge and utilization of Hypertension Management Techniques among Rural Dwellers in Ijebu-North East Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria. One Hundred and Fifty (150) rural dwellers were selected using simple random sampling techniques. Research findings revealed that age, marital status, educational status, income, household size, source of information and awareness had a significant effect on the rural dwellers’ utilization of hypertension management techniques. Source of information and awareness had a significant influence on the utilization of hypertension management techniques. It further showed that no significant relationship between knowledge of rural dwellers and hypertension management techniques used. The rural dwellers in the local government were aware and have knowledge of various hypertension management techniques but often utilize the traditional technique effectively than the orthodox technique. Therefore, religious organizations should be used as a platform for disseminating health-related information particularly hypertension management techniques in the study area.