Abstract 

This research was carried out to assess the knowledge of hypertension and its risk factors in Maiduguri Metropolitan council, Northern eastern Nigeria. A descriptive survey study was used to evaluate hypertension knowledge and attitude in a mixed population of hypertensive and non-hypertensive victims. Participants were selected through a random sampling method. Demographic data including age, gender, marital status, highest educational qualification and occupation were recorded. Information on knowledge of hypertension and its risk factors and their attitude towards it were also obtained. Blood pressure was taken once using a standard mercury sphygmomanometer. The State Specialist hospital, Maiduguri was use as a case study with 300 persons who were visiting the outpatient department of the hospital selected, and were willing to participate in the study.

The level of knowledge regarding hypertension among adults in Maiduguri metropolitan council was high (88%) even though only 75.3% of the participant could correctly identify the meaning of high blood pressure.

The level of knowledge regarding the risk factors of hypertension was slightly more than average (64%) and only 34% could correctly define the meaning of risk factors.

Low knowledge levels on hypertension were in relation to old age, low levels of education and low income. 

The following recommendations were made: Government and voluntary health agencies should sponsor intensive enlightenment campaign through electronic and social media in order to sustain and increase the level of knowledge of adults on hypertension, its risk factors and complications. Special attention should be given to those in the rural settings and remote villages as they are least aware of hypertension or been treated of it for the ones with hypertensive situations which might not even been aware of their state of health.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TITLE PAGE   

COVER PAGE

CERTIFICATION

DEDICATION

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

ABSTRACT

LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER ONE

    INTRODUCTION

1.1     Background to the study

1.2     Statement of problem

     Objective of study

General objective

1.3.2  Specific objective

1.4     Significance of the study

1.5     Scope of study

1.6     Research questions

1.7     Hypothesis

CHAPTER TWO

   LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1    What is Hypertension?

2.2    Causes and risk factors of hypertension

2.3    Signs and symptoms of hypertension

2.4    Epidemiology of hypertension (WHO)

2.5    Pathophysiology of hypertension

2.6    Types of hypertension

2.7    Diagnosis

2.8    Treatment of hypertension

2.9    Management of hypertension

3.0    Prevention/control

CHAPTER THREE

   RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

 Research design

   Description of study area

3.3    Study setting and sampling technique

3.4    Sampling Criteria

3.5    Instrument design

3.6    Method of data collection

3.7    Method of data analysis

3.8    Limitations and strengths of the study

CHAPTER FOUR

   RESULTS

CHAPTER FIVE

   DISCUSSION, CONCLUSION, RECOMMENDATIONS AND   RESEARCH.

5.1    Discussion of findings

5.2    Conclusion

5.3    Recommendations

5.4    Research

REFERENCES

Appendix