Assessment of Knowledge, Influencing Factors, And Self- Management Practices Among Adults Living with Diabetes and Hypertension in Ashaiman, Ghana

Abstract

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, are increasingly prevalent in Ghana and present a significant public health challenge. Effective management of NCDs requires not only access to healthcare but also adequate patient knowledge and strong self-management practices. In densely populated urban areas like Ashaiman, understanding how individuals manage their conditions is critical to designing responsive interventions. Aim: This study aims to assess the knowledge, influencing factors, and self-management practices among adults living with diabetes and hypertension in Ashaiman, Ghana. Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among adults living with diabetes and hypertension in Ashaiman, Ghana. Participants were recruited from selected public and private health facilities, including Ashaiman Polyclinic, Zenu Polyclinic, Adusei Hospital and Ashaiman Municipal Hospital, as well as community settings such as local markets. Recruitment followed a census approach where all eligible NCD patients available during the study period were enrolled, while additional respondents were identified in community spaces to capture a wider population. Analysis was carried out in STATA version 18. Descriptive statistics summarised socio-demographic, knowledge, and practice variables. Associations between categorical and continuous variables were explored using chi-square tests and fishers test. Results: The study involved 93 adults living with diabetes and hypertension in Ashaiman, Ghana, mostly females (75.3%) aged 51–60 years (37.6%). Nearly half (44.1%) had both conditions, and most (72.1%) had Type 2 diabetes. Overall knowledge was high, with 80.6% demonstrating good understanding and 89.3% having received dietary advice, 51.6% had good practice, 53.8% reported weight loss, and 47.3% exercised weekly, but only 30.1% owned glucometers. Education and ethnicity significantly influenced practice (p < 0.05): good practice was highest among those with primary education (83.3%). Age, sex, and self-efficacy showed no significant effect. Overall, while knowledge levels were strong, consistent self-management practices remained limited, underscoring the need for culturally tailored, education-sensitive interventions in chronic disease care. Conclusion: The study concludes that while most adults living with diabetes and hypertension in Ashaiman demonstrate fair awareness of their conditions, this knowledge does not consistently translate into effective self-management practices. Educational attainment and ethnicity were found to significantly influence adherence to recommended practices, while other sociodemographic factors showed no meaningful association. The findings highlight the need for continuous health education, culturally tailored communication, and community-based support to enhance treatment compliance and reduce complications. Strengthening health-system engagement and empowering patients through targeted behavioral interventions remain essential for improving chronic-disease outcomes in Ghana.