Self-Managed Hypertension: A Phenomenological Assessment of Patients’ Treatment Behaviours in Ghana

Prince Owusu Adoma, Department of Health Administration and Education, University of Education – Winneba, Winneba – C/R
Acquah Francis, Department of Health Administration and Education, University of Education – Winneba, Winneba – C/R
Botchwey Charles Owusu-Aduomi, Department of Health Administration and Education, University of Education – Winneba, Winneba – C/R
Fred Gbagbo, University of Education, Winneba
Tarkang Elvis Enowbeyang, Fred Binka School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Science, Ho

This study investigated self-management behaviours used to control high blood pressure at home by hypertensive patients receiving treatment at Sunyani Teaching Hospital, Ghana. A phenomenological study grounded in constructivist approach was employed. Participants (26) were chosen based on theme saturation, using in-depth interview. Responses were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analysed using Atlas.ti software. Six self-management behaviours emerged, including antihypertensive medication intake, healthy diet, physical exercise, review appointments, abstaining from smoking and/or alcohol, and self-measuring blood pressure. Most participants incorporated at least three behaviours, which could not ensure optimal blood pressure. Consistency and adequacy were lacking for effective self-care. Participants often consumed available food, and knowledge of recommended salt intake was limited, relying on taste. Therefore, rolling out policies that make the healthy choice the easy choice in managing non-communicable diseases need to be given priority to promote healthy behaviours