A BASELINE STUDY ASSESSING HYPERTENSION PREVALENCE AND MANAGEMENT IN FIVE PERIPHERAL HEALTH UNITS IN TONKOLINI DISTRICT, SIERRA LEONE

Authors

  • Larissa Klootwijk Lion Heart Medical Center, Yele, Sierra Leone
  • Charles Elijah Lion Heart Medical Center, Yele, Sierra Leone
  • Barbara Van Gessel Lion Heart Medical Center, Yele, Sierra Leone

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4314/sljbr.v14i1.8

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.

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Published

2023-10-20

Issue

Section

Original Articles