Knowledge on arterial hypertension in general population: Results from a community pharmacy screening program

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Hypertension is a major risk factor for severe renal, cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular diseases.
• Hypertension-related organ damage is often irreversible, underscoring the critical importance of prevention.
• Public sensitization regarding hypertension consequences is vital for treatment adherence and lifestyle modification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the level of hypertension awareness among customers in community pharmacies.
• To identify potential gaps in public knowledge regarding hypertension and its risks.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire on hypertension was administered to 2731 customers across 94 community pharmacies in North West Italy.
• Data collection occurred during a community-based hypertension screening program.
• Statistical analysis was performed to correlate awareness levels with blood pressure readings and treatment status.

Main Results:

• Hypertension awareness was unsatisfactory in a significant portion of the surveyed population, with only 15% demonstrating good overall knowledge.
• Lower awareness levels were significantly associated with higher blood pressure measurements (p < 0.001).
• Patients with hypertension or uncontrolled blood pressure despite therapy scored worse on the knowledge questionnaire (p = 0.03).

Conclusions:

• Public knowledge regarding hypertension remains largely inadequate.
• Community pharmacies represent a valuable setting for implementing health education initiatives and hypertension screening programs.
• Targeted educational interventions in accessible community settings are necessary to improve hypertension management.