A baseline study assessing hypertension prevalence and management in five peripheral health units in Tonkolini district, Sierra Leone

Abstract

Introduction: Hypertension is a common non communicable disease worldwide. Studies suggest high prevalence of hypertension in low- and middle-income countries as Sierra Leone. This study aims to provide an overview  of the current prevalence and management of  hypertension in five peripheral health units (PHUs) prior to an  intervention study.

Methods: This study was a prospective baseline study in Yele, Tonkolini District in Sierra Leone, conducted from  February 2022 till April  2022. Health care workers in charge of each facility were interviewed upon current  hypertension management. Univariate analysis was  conducted to report data. Chi-square testing was done to  assess influence of variables on hypertension.

Results: A total number of 112 patients were included in the study. Eighty-six were females which accounted for 76%  of the sample.  Median age of the sample was 40 (IQR 25-59).  In total 38 (33%) patients had unknown hypertension and 4 (3.5%) patients had unknown  malignant  hypertension. Age above 40 years was significantly associated with hypertension (P<0.001). Health care  workers indicated to  not have access to a working blood pressure machine in 4 out of 5 facilities,  antihypertensive medication was not available in 4 out of 5  facilities and referral practices for suspected  hypertension cases were poor.

Conclusion: This baseline study showed a high prevalence  of hypertension in five PHU facilities near Yele, Tonkolili  District, Sierra Leone. Challenges in current management of hypertension in  PHUs near Yele involved and  lacking availability of medical equipment such as blood pressure machines and medication.