The self-management experience of subjects with hypertension - Results from a qualitative study (Warsaw, Poland)

Abstract

Background Arterial hypertension is a serious public health problem. In Poland, hypertension is controlled only in about 21% of patients in the primary care setting. The efficacy of hypertension treatment depends on the selection of appropriate therapy and active patient involvement. The aim of the study was to explore the experiences, beliefs and motivations regarding hypertension and its treatment using the grounded theory. The study was conducted using the semi-structured, face-to-face interviews among the purposive sample. Transcriptions were thematically coded and analyzed using constant comparison. Data saturation was reached. Twenty hypertensive patients (10 women and 10 men) aged 50-59 years participated in the study. Generally, patients feel at risk due to hypertension. As part of self-management, they try to take their medication regularly and modify their lifestyles. The relationship with the health care provider is key to the success of self-management. The study subjects identified many benefits and factors motivating them for self-management. The study revealed also numerous barriers, particularly with reference to implementing lifestyle modifications. Although the study subjects demonstrated overall proactive attitudes, there is a number of barriers to self-management. It is essential to know these barriers and methods to overcome them in order to promote self-management practices.