Abstract:
Background: Hypertension is a major public health issue as its consequences for the individual and society are enormous. Addressing the treatment needs of persons living with hypertension can only be achieved through an understanding of their lived experiences. However, there is a dearth of empirical literature on the lived experiences of persons living with hypertension in the Ghanaian context to inform public health policies and practices.This study explored the lived experiences and adherence to medication of the persons living with hypertension receiving care at the Anum-Boso Clinic in the Eastern Region.
Methods: A qualitative research approach was used and the phenomenological design was employed. A total of 30 participants were recruited and individual in-depth interviews were conducted using an interview guide consisting of the key areas of interest. A descriptive thematic analysis was used to analyze the data and the results were presented in themes and sub-themes. Adherence to medication was also measured using the Morisky Adherence Scale.
Results: The findings of this study highlighted the lived experiences and unmet medical care needs of people living with hypertension in the Anum-Boso community. Many respondents described times when they felt poorly and sought medical care as a result of symptoms including headaches, dizziness, or irregular heartbeat. Additionally, majority of respondents highlighted the high cost of anti-hypertensives and how that has impacted the management of their condition. None of the respondents reported high adherence to medications. Highlighting a critical gap in hypertension education and management in the community. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into lived experiences of individuals living with hypertension in Ghanaian context, The findings underscore the significant challenges faced by hypertensive individuals, ranging from experiencing distress symptoms to grappling with financial burden of medication costs. The luck of reported high adherence to medications also points to a substantial gap in hypertension education and management within the community. By recognizing and addressing these specific issues, policymakers and healthcare providers can work towards improving the quality of life for individuals with hypertension in the Anum-Boso community and beyond, ultimately mitigating the broader societal impact of this prevalent health concern.
