KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS TO MEDICATION ADHERENCE IN A FEDERAL GOVERNMENT HEALTH INSTITUTION IN BAYELSA STATE, NIGERIA
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Abstract
Hypertension is a leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in Nigeria. Despite availability of effective antihypertensive medications, poor blood pressure control remains common, and patient‑related factors such as knowledge and attitude are key determinants of adherence and outcomes. This study assessed the knowledge of hypertension and attitudes towards treatment among hypertensive patients attending a federal tertiary hospital in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross‑sectional study was conducted among adult hypertensive patients attending the cardiology clinic of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa. Eligible participants were18 years and older, had physician‑diagnosed hypertension, and had been on antihypertensive medication for at least six months. Using systematic random sampling, 253 patients were recruited. Data were collected with a structured, interviewer‑administered questionnaire. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25 and summarised with descriptive statistics. The response rate was 100%. Respondents were predominantly female (66.8%) and aged ≥46 years (57.3%); most were married (72.7%), Christian (99.6%), and had tertiary education (60.1%). The mean knowledge score was 10.89 (of 14), with 197 (77.8%) having adequate knowledge and 56 (22.2%) poor knowledge. The mean attitude score was 6.47 (out of 9); 182 (71.8%) demonstrated good attitudes towards hypertension treatment, while 71 (28.2%) had poor attitudes. Hypertensive patients attending FMC Yenagoa exhibited relatively adequate knowledge of hypertension and favourable attitudes towards treatment; however, knowledge and attitude remained suboptimal. Findings highlight the need to complement existing education with structured, behaviour‑focused adherence support that addresses practical barriers, reinforces positive beliefs, and translates knowledge and attitudes into sustained medication‑taking behaviour.
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