European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

IMPACT OF COMMUNITY- BASED HEALTH EDUCATION ON HYPERTENSION MANAGEMENT AMONG ADULT AT PHC RAIPUR, DEHRADUN

Ritu Ahlawat*, Shalini Dhoundiyal, Naghma Nazrana

ABSTRACT

Hypertension is a major non-communicable disease and a leading contributor to global morbidity and mortality. In India, it affects a substantial proportion of the adult population, particularly individuals aged 30–60 years who represent the economically productive segment of society. Despite the availability of effective pharmacological therapies, hypertension control remains suboptimal due to poor awareness, unhealthy lifestyle practices, delayed diagnosis, and low adherence to treatment. These challenges are more pronounced in semi-urban and rural regions, where limited health literacy and inadequate access to continuous health education further aggravate disease burden. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of community-based health education on hypertension management among adults attending Primary Health Centre (PHC) Selaqui, Dehradun. A community-based interventional study design was adopted and conducted over a period of 45 days. Hypertensive individuals aged 30–60 years residing within the PHC catchment area were included. The intervention consisted of structured health education sessions focusing on key aspects such as dietary modification, particularly salt restriction, promotion of regular physical activity, stress management techniques, and reinforcement of medication adherence. Educational strategies included group sessions, individual counseling, and distribution of information, education, and communication (IEC) materials. Baseline and post-intervention assessments were carried out to evaluate changes in knowledge, attitude, practices, and blood pressure levels. The findings demonstrated a significant improvement in participants’ awareness and understanding of hypertension and its associated risk factors. Positive behavioral changes were observed, including adoption of healthier dietary habits, increased physical activity, and improved compliance with prescribed medications. Furthermore, a measurable reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels was recorded following the intervention, indicating improved disease control.In conclusion, community-based health education is an effective, feasible, and cost-efficient strategy for improving hypertension management at the primary healthcare level. By enhancing patient awareness and promoting sustainable lifestyle modifications, such interventions can bridge the gap between diagnosis and long-term disease control. Strengthening community engagement and integrating structured education programs into PHC services can play a vital role in reducing the burden of hypertension and its complications in India.

Keywords: Hypertension, Community-based intervention, PHC, Blood pressure, Lifestyle modification, Adherence.