Background : Patient related factors hindering optimal blood pressure (BP) control in patients with hypertension are unclear. Objectives : To investigate the barriers to optimal hypertension management. Methods : A survey on the awareness and management of hypertension was conducted in 556 patients (365 males, mean age 60.9 ± 10.1) from a rural community. Results : Of the 556 patients who had a clinical diagnosis of hypertension, 127 (22.8%) were unaware the existence of the condition and received no therapy. In the 429 patients who were aware the presence of hypertension, 206 (48.0%) did not receive any antihypertensive medication at the time of this study. Fifty-four (12.5%) had a BP of less than 140/90 mm Hg. Only 21 (4.9%) received formal counselling or education from health professionals and 74 (17.2%) were aware of the optimal level of BP. Difficulty in accessing a specialist doctor was reported by 126 (29.4%). In 279 (65.0%), missing regular antihypertensive medications was reported in the 4-week period prior to this study. Omitting prescribed antihypertensive drugs due to the costs was reported by 169 (39.4%). Conclusions : Inadequate counselling, lack of understanding on the disease, difficulties in accessing specialist care and poor medication adherence are the barriers to optimal BP control.

Key words : hypertension, management barriers, anti-hypertensive drugs; specialist care.