Barriers to knowledge, treatment, and control of hypertension in Latin America: a scoping review

Abstract

Objective. Group the barriers to knowledge, treatment, and control of hypertension in patients in Latin America through a scoping review. Methods. A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework and the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Searches were carried out in the PubMed, Virtual Health Library, and Scopus databases. Blind and independent selection was conducted in the RAYYAN QCRI application. Finally, the results of the selected studies were addressed narratively. Results. Eight qualitative and quantitative studies that fit the research question were included. The most frequently described barriers are systemic barriers that hinder comprehensive and equitable access to health care and medication, as well as a lack of educational programs, personalized interventions to improve adherence to treatments, and lifestyle changes. Economic factors are critical in Latin America, hindering access to the health system and changes to lifestyles due to the costs of transportation, medical appointments, and medicines. Conclusions. The detected barriers affect all dimensions of adherence to treatment; among the most important barriers are decision makers who lack education and positioning with respect to care of hypertension.