Correct and incorrect knowledge of the risk factors concerning the development of arterial hypertension. Part 1. Population of people without hypertension

Abstract

Introduction. Hypertension (HT) is one of the most common causes of death in the adult population in the world. The lifestyle factors play a significant role in its pathogenesis. To be effective in preventing its development or slowing its progress the society needs to have proper knowledge.

Material and methods. The study was conducted in a population of 929 adults who had no known HT. Sociodemographic data were collected from each subject, anthropometric measurements were taken, blood pressure and heart rate were measured twice. The knowledge was assessed using the authorial questionnaire, and questions were related to knowledge about the effects of smoking, alcohol, coffee, salt, fat, irregular diet, low fibre and vegetables, and skimmed dairy products in diet, overweight and obesity, cholesterol, physical activity, stressful lifestyle on the development of HT.

Results. Incorrect knowledge of the influence on the development of HT in the case of alcohol drinking was found in 16.9% of the respondents, coffee — 58.8%, large amounts of salt — 10.3%, large amounts of fat — 82.7%, small amounts of fibre and vegetables and skimmed dairy products — 26.2%, irregular diet — 46.4%, cigarette smoking — 70.9%, overweight and obesity — 5.1%, high cholesterol — 87.6%, low physical activity — 10.9%, stressful lifestyle — 6.5%.

Conclusions. Incorrect knowledge of HT-related risk factors was associated particularly with higher level of cholesterol, excessive fat intake, smoking and coffee consumption. Most frequently incorrect answers were given by men, low-educated and non-smokers. In the above-mentioned groups emphasis on health promotion should be placed the most.