%0 Journal Article
%T Actions to Control Hypertension Among Adults in Oklahoma
%A Jennifer L. Han
%A PhD
%J Preventing Chronic Disease
%D 2011
%I National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
%X IntroductionHypertension is a chronic condition that can be managed with self-monitoring, lifestyle changes, and medication. The purpose of this study was to describe receipt of physician¡¯s treatment advice and use of treatments to manage hypertension among Oklahoma¡¯s adult population.MethodsA random-digit¨Cdialed telephone survey was administered to noninstitutionalized adult residents of Oklahoma (n = 7,463) in 2007. Respondents who indicated that they had ever had hypertension (n = 2,937) were asked whether a doctor had advised them on each of 5 general management techniques and whether they used these techniques to manage their condition. Data were weighted and a descriptive analysis of the age-adjusted rates was performed.ResultsOf all hypertensive adults, 91% had received advice from a physician regarding treatment options, and medication was the most commonly recommended therapy (80%). Almost all hypertensive adults were managing their hypertension through use of medication or lifestyle modification, and reducing salt intake was the most common treatment used (74%). Physician advice and individual treatment choices varied by demographic characteristics, although respondents more commonly used a treatment method that was advised by a physician.ConclusionDoctors should advise hypertensive patients of treatment options because patients may be more likely to use 1 or more physician-advised options to manage their condition. Efforts should be made to enhance physicians¡¯ ability to educate patients about the effects of hypertension and ways in which hypertension can be treated, in addition to enhancing the patients¡¯ knowledge of prevention and treatment strategies.
%K Hypertension
%K adults
%K Oklahoma
%U http://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2011/jan/09_0192.htm