Assessing the Factors Influencing Hypertension Self-Management Practices among Adults in Urban Lusaka: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Hypertension remains a significant public health challenge in urban Lusaka, contributing to high morbidity and mortality, a trend evidenced by the steady increase in reported cases. Effective management is crucial, yet poor control indicates potential gaps in individual selfcare. To assess the factors influencing hypertension self-management practices among adults in urban Lusaka. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 151 adults diagnosed with hypertension. Convenience sampling was used to select Kanyama, Chawama and Matero Level 1 Hospitals while a stratified random sampling technique was used to select study participants. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. SPSS version 25 was used to analyse data. Before data collection, ethical approval was obtained from university ethics committee and National Health Research Authority. The findings revealed a moderate overall knowledge level among participants (mean score of 67.9%), with a high standard deviation (20.63) indicating significant variability. While most respondents (90%) understood the general seriousness of the condition. Attitudes were moderately positive (mean 3.58), with strong agreement on seriousness, exercise, and medication importance. In conclusion a significant gap exists between what adults with hypertension in urban Lusaka know and how they actually manage the condition. High non-adherence rates are largely driven by structural barriers such as medication cost and accessibility, behavioural challenges like forgetfulness and low self-efficacy, and weak patient follow-up systems. To improve hypertension control, the study recommends sustained, targeted health education, stronger patient counselling to build confidence, and practical interventions to reduce barriers to medication adherence. Key Words: Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Hypertension, self-medication