Abstract

HT is among the leading causes of mortality globally, impacting all economic classes in all nations[1, 2]. As per international health records from 2012, it affects 29.2 percent of males and 24.8 percent of females[1]. Furthermore, in 2004, HT was associated with 7.5 million fatalities out of 58.8 million deaths worldwide, making it a leading cause of early deaths in the world[3].
HT levels are extremely increased in Saudi Arabia (SA), where it was documented between 1995 and 2000 to vary from 26.1 percent among the 30–70 year old population, and in 2005 to range from 25.5 percent among the 15–64 year old age group[4, 5]. According to 2010 estimations, HT was classified as the leading cause of death in South Africa[6]. Patients with unmanaged HT can provide a significant burden to the healthcare system, necessitating the development of additional remedies to reduce the potential liability of HT in South Africa[4].
Hypertension is a prominent area of attention since it is a common illness that may be controlled with both nonpharmacological lifestyle variables and therapeutic interventions. Although antihypertensive drugs have been used to manage blood pressure, there is a significant focus on the treatment and prevention of Hypertension using non - pharmacologic approaches referred to as lifestyle changes [7-9]. Salt limitation, reduction of alcohol intake, high intake of fruits and vegetables, low-fat, weight loss and management, and regular physical activity are among the suggested lifestyle modifications that were demonstrated to reduce blood pressure. Patients with hypertension, regardless of stage or severity, should be encouraged to take these precautions. Empowering patients to make lifestyle adjustments is among the most difficult parts of Hypertension management [10].
Knowledge is a corner stone in the management of hypertension along with positive attitude and good practice[11, 12] thus this study is assessing the level of knowledge, attitude and practice of hypertensive patients toward hypertension.