Children as adherence enhancing agents in management of primary hypertension of adult family members

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Self-management of hypertension requires timely medication, prescribed diet, consistent exercise, and daily monitoring of health parameters to avoid its fatal consequences. Compliance is often difficult without family support, and this study aims to explore the agency of children in the mitigation of the disease. OBJECTIVES: To examine the effectiveness of children in their family member's hypertension management, an antihypertensive educational module was provided to them. METHODS: A sample of 43 children between 11 and 14 years of age, who had each identified a hypertensive family member, was provided with holistic information about hypertension through a video, information booklet, and interactive discussions reinforced at three intermissions over a span of 6 weeks. Children and adults were assessed for hypertension knowledge before and following intervention. Change in hypertension compliance and blood pressure (BP) was observed for the adults. RESULTS: The results showed that children had a significant improvement in overall hypertension knowledge test including its domains. The monitoring records reported to highlight the efforts put by the children during the course of the study. Assuming its intended effects, a significant reduction in the systolic and diastolic BP reading was observed with an overall improvement in compliance. Interestingly, the knowledge status in adult participants had not increased. CONCLUSION: The results have been discussed which highlight the role of children in influencing “their patients.” It unlocks a gateway of research involving children, especially in primary and tertiary approaches to secure chronic disease prevention and management.