Healthcare, Vol. 14, Pages 10: Impact of Key Lifestyle Behaviors on Hypertension Control: Implications for Optimizing Patient Management

Healthcare doi: 10.3390/healthcare14010010

Authors:
Salihah Kashum
Ghareeb Bahari

Background/Objective: Hypertension is a major global health concern and a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Lifestyle behaviors, such as diet, physical activity, stress management, and self-confidence, markedly influence hypertension control. Exploring these behaviors can inform culturally relevant interventions for improving the prevention and management of hypertension and health outcomes of affected individuals. This study aimed to determine the effects of lifestyle behaviors, including dietary habits, physical activity, stress management, and self-confidence, on optimizing hypertension control among individuals in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive–correlational design was used. Data were collected from 136 patients with hypertension attending primary healthcare centers in Saudi Arabia using validated scales for dietary habits, physical activity, perceived stress, and self-confidence, alongside blood pressure measurements. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26. Results: The study revealed that most participants reported reasonably healthy dietary practices, low physical activity, and moderate stress and self-confidence. Significant sex differences (p < 0.05) were observed, with men and women reporting higher physical activity and stress, respectively. Education and age influenced dietary habits and self-confidence. Regression analysis identified age, education, and urban residence as predictors (p < 0.05) of blood pressure status, while stress, diet, and physical activity affected self-confidence and perceived stress levels. Conclusions: Hypertension management is influenced by interconnected lifestyle and psychosocial factors, and improving dietary habits, physical activity, stress management, and self-confidence is essential. Tailored interventions addressing demographic differences can enhance self-care behaviors and facilitate better hypertension control among Saudi individuals.

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Salihah Kashum www.mdpi.com