Public Awareness, Perception and Monitoring Practices of Hypertension Among General Population: A Cross-sectional Analysis

Abstract Background: Hypertension is a major global public health burden and remains one of the leading modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Despite its widespread prevalence, awareness regarding its symptoms, complications, and preventive strategies remains insufficient, particularly in low-resource settings. Uncontrolled hypertension contributes significantly to long-term complications, including stroke, myocardial infarction, chronic kidney disease, and heart failure. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the perception, awareness, and understanding of hypertension among hypertensive individuals attending a tertiary-care neurology outpatient department. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 200 adults diagnosed with hypertension. A structured, pre-tested questionnaire assessed sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of hypertension, awareness of symptoms, understanding of associated risk factors, and attitudes toward lifestyle modifications and blood pressure (BP) monitoring. Statistical analysis included descriptive measures and Chi-square testing for associations. Results: A significant association was observed between hypertension and rural residence ( P = 0.0477), tobacco use ( P = 0.0002), diabetes mellitus ( P = 0.0004), and history of stroke ( P < 0.0001). Awareness of hypertension symptoms and the importance of routine BP monitoring was low; most participants checked their BP only when symptomatic. No significant association was found between alcohol use and hypertension ( P = 0.495). Conclusion: Hypertension prevalence was higher among rural residents and individuals with modifiable risk factors such as tobacco use. Awareness regarding hypertension symptoms and the need for regular monitoring was inadequate. Public health strategies must prioritize targeted educational interventions to reduce the long-term burden of uncontrolled hypertension.