Knowledge, risk factors and preventive strategies of Hypertension among Babcock University students in Nigeria: A cross-sectional study.

Chidinma Abaribe; Joshua  Obasan; Christian  Asonye; Olubunmi   Ogunmuyiwa; Bukola  Howells

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i3.2245

Authors

Chidinma Abaribe Babcock University
Joshua Obasan BABCOCK UNIVERSITY
Christian Asonye BABCOCK UNIVERSITY
Olubunmi Ogunmuyiwa
Bukola Howells

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i3.2245

Keywords:

Hypertension, Knowledge, Preventive Practices, Risk Factors, female university students, Nigeria

Abstract

Aim

Hypertension is the most common, modifiable, non-communicable disease in the world and the leading risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity. This research assessed the knowledge, risk factors and preventive strategies of hypertension among Babcock University students.

Method

A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, involving 384 students selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results

Findings from this study reveal that majority (87.5%) were within the age range of 18–25, (91.7%) had a high level of knowledge of hypertension. Major identified risk factors included family history (71.6%), lack of exercise (70.3%), smoking (69.8%), being overweight (67.2%), and alcohol consumption (63.3%). While respondents recognized preventive measures such as regular exercise (84.4%), reducing alcohol (79.7%) and salt intake (79.2%), actual adherence to these practices was inconsistent, and only 6.5% were hypertensive. A significant gender-based difference in knowledge was observed (p = 0.006<0.05), and a weak but significant positive correlation existed between knowledge and preventive practices (r = .195, p = .0001).

Conclusion

The study concludes that while knowledge of hypertension is high, preventive practices remain suboptimal. These findings underscore the need for targeted health education interventions to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice.

Recommendation

There is a need to strengthen behavioural change among university students through sustained health education and lifestyle interventions.

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