Impact of lifestyle modifications on blood pressure control in hypertensive patients: A Prospective cohort observational study.

Pragna S; Swathi G; Yerakala  Ramesh

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.1847

Authors

Dr. Pragna S Assistant Professor, Department of General Medicine, Government Medical College and General Hospital, Mahabubabad, Telangana, India
Dr. Swathi G Assistant Professor, Department of General Medicine, MGM Hospital, Warangal, Telangana, India
Dr. Yerakala Ramesh Assistant Professor, Department of General Medicine, Government Medical College and General Hospital, Khammam, Telangana, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.1847

Keywords:

Hypertension, Lifestyle modification, Blood pressure, DASH diet, Physical activity, Adherence, Non-pharmacologic treatment

Abstract

Background

Hypertension remains a leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. While pharmacological treatment is widely prescribed, lifestyle modification is a cornerstone of non-pharmacologic management. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of structured lifestyle changes on blood pressure control among hypertensive patients.

Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of dietary, behavioral, and physical activity-based lifestyle modifications on systolic and diastolic blood pressure control over six months.

Methods

This prospective observational study was conducted on 100 adult hypertensive patients over six months. Baseline demographics, co-morbidities, and blood pressure readings were recorded. Patients received counseling on lifestyle modifications, including DASH diet adherence, salt restriction, physical activity, smoking cessation, weight management, and alcohol moderation. Follow-up measurements of blood pressure and lifestyle adherence were recorded and analyzed using appropriate statistical methods.

Results

The mean age of participants was 52.4 ± 10.8 years, with 56% males. At baseline, the mean systolic and diastolic blood pressures were 148.6 ± 9.5 mmHg and 92.4 ± 6.3 mmHg, respectively. After six months, significant reductions were observed in systolic (134.2 ± 8.6 mmHg) and diastolic (84.1 ± 5.4 mmHg) blood pressure (p < 0.001). Among patients with high adherence to lifestyle changes (≥4 factors), 86% achieved blood pressure control, compared to only 25% in the low adherence group. Lifestyle adherence was strongly associated with better blood pressure outcomes.

Conclusion

Lifestyle modifications significantly improve blood pressure control in hypertensive patients, particularly when multiple changes are adopted consistently. These non-pharmacologic strategies should be integrated into routine hypertension management.

Recommendations

Primary care settings must prioritize lifestyle counseling and follow-up reinforcement to improve adherence and long-term hypertension control.

Author Biographies

Dr. Pragna S, Assistant Professor, Department of General Medicine, Government Medical College and General Hospital, Mahabubabad, Telangana, India

Dr.Pragna S is currently working as an Assistant Professor at Government Medical College, Mahabubabad, Telangana, India. She completed her MBBS from Medicity Institute of Medical Sciences, Medchal, and earned her MD in General Medicine from Gandhi Medical College, Secunderabad. With over five years of teaching experience, she has successfully mentored undergraduate students in their ICMR-funded research projects. Dr. Pragna has also authored three research papers published in reputed medical journals, reflecting her commitment to academic and clinical excellence.ORCID ID:https://orcid.org/0009-0000-8888-3925

Dr. Swathi G, Assistant Professor, Department of General Medicine, MGM Hospital, Warangal, Telangana, India

Dr. Swathi G. is currently serving as an Assistant Professor at MGM Hospital, Warangal, Telangana, India. She completed her MBBS from Deccan College of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, followed by an MD in General Medicine from Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad. With over three years of teaching experience, she has actively mentored undergraduate students, successfully guiding them in their ICMR-funded research projects. Dr. Swathi has also contributed to the field through two research publications in reputed journals, with a focus on general medicine and public health.ORCID ID:https://orcid.org/0009-0003-4983-7370

Dr. Yerakala Ramesh, Assistant Professor, Department of General Medicine, Government Medical College and General Hospital, Khammam, Telangana, India

Dr.Yerakala Ramesh is currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Government Medical College, Khammam, Telangana, India. He completed his MBBS and subsequently earned his MD in General Medicine from Mamata Medical College, Khammam. With over 3.5 years of teaching experience, he has successfully mentored undergraduate students in ICMR-funded research projects. Dr. Yerakala Ramesh has also authored two research papers published in reputed journals, with a focus on general medicine and public health. ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0009-0004-8644-2869

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