Hypertension Management and Health Belief in Middle-Aged Laotian Population

Abstract

Abstract Background This study estimated prevalence of hypertension awareness, treatment, and control and examined their associations with health locus of control by rural and urban areas. Methods This is cross-sectional study using population-based data. Middle-aged people living in central Laos were recruited using a multistage cluster sampling approach and analytic sample size was 924. Blood pressure was measured by a digital automatic blood pressure monitor. Self-reported hypertension awareness, treatment, and control were recorded and health locus of control was assessed using the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale (HLOC). Results Proportions of awareness, treatment, and control were 43.4%, 42.3%, and 17.8%. In urban areas, individuals with one point greater in doctor HLOC were 15% more likely to be aware of their hypertension status (95% CI: 1.03–1.28), 13% more likely to adhere to blood pressure-lowering medication (95% CI: 1.01–1.27), and 25% more likely to have controlled hypertension (95% CI: 1.11–1.41). In rural areas, individuals with one point higher in internal HLOC was related to 17% higher chance of having controlled hypertension (95% CI: 1.05–1.29). Conclusions The findings call for actions to prevent and manage hypertension and health beliefs should be considered to design a culturally tailored intervention in Laos.