The effects of family reinforcement on compliance of hypertensive Nigerians with antihypertensive therapy

ABSTRACT

Lack of compliance to drug therapy is a major problem in achieving a reduction in morbidity and mortality in hypertensives. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of family reinforcement on compliance of hypertensive patients to prescribed antihypertensive therapy. Seventy-two non-compliant hypertensives were systematically sampled from 365 non-compliant hypertensive population and randomised into control and experimental groups. The two groups were comparable with respect to drug therapy; demographic and socioeconomic variables. Only the designated significant family members of the experimental group were treated with the family health education package and motivated to be involved in the care of their hypertensive relatives. After 6 months post family reinforcement intervention and follow up the experimental group showed an increase in compliance with respect to drug intake and clinic appointments; a significant fall in blood pressure and an improved perception of hypertension as a disesae compared with the control group. It is suggested that family support is a crucial factor in daily compliance with prescribed regimen in Nigerian hypertensives