A DESCRIPTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON ASSESSMENT OF PATIENTS KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE ON HYPERTENSION AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Introduction: Hypertension is a strong independent risk factor for coronary and cerebrovascular diseases, as well as for heart failure, atrialfibrillation and chronic renal failure, thus substantially contributing to the global burden of disease. Moreover, it is well known that reducing blood pressure (BP) in hypertensive patientsis associated with a significant reduction in the rate of cardiovascular complications and adecline in renal function. Aim: To assess the patients knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) and to create awareness about hypertension among hypertensive patients. Objectives: To evaluate the current situation and differences in knowledge, attitude and practices regarding hypertension and to create awareness of hypertension by giving verbal counseling to hypertensivepatients. Conclusion: Our study signifies that patients require support and guidance for practicing better disease management. Hence we conclude that aclinical pharmacist can play major role in improving patients knowledge and adherence bypatient education, developing maintenance of diet and exercise improved the patients practice activities. Clinical activities such as patient counseling, Home Medication Review, Pharmaceutical care program help to increase the patients practice in disease management.