Intergenerational transfer of blood pressure knowledge and screening: a school-based hypertension awareness program in Singapore

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to examine the efficacy of a hypertension awareness education program in Singapore in reaching out to a wider population of diverse racial and intergenerational cohorts by dispatching grade five children as information intermediaries to their immediate and extended family members. Method: After receiving structured instruction and training on blood pressure screening, students were requested to share knowledge gained in school with their family members at home and practice blood pressure measurement on family volunteers. We assessed pre- and post-program blood pressure knowledge change, attitude toward screening, and the diffusion of blood pressure information. One adult family member was also asked to complete a short survey at the program end. Results: A comparison of the students’ (final n = 3926) pre- and post-program survey data showed that knowledge and attitudes towards knowledge sharing improved after participating in the program. The post-program survey also revealed that students generally felt confident and displayed positive attitudes in performing blood pressure screening on family members. On average, each student practiced blood pressure measurement on 3.04 people. Female family members were more likely to be targeted for knowledge sharing and screening than male family members. The family members’ survey revealed positive attitudes towards screening, but family members were not confident about getting their measurements done regularly. Conclusion: The program met its objectives in raising the awareness of grade five children and provision of knowledge. It also met the larger objective of raising hypertension awareness in a wider population, especially those who otherwise might not directly receive health education and blood pressure screening.