Date of Award

8-13-2021

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

MS in Physician Assistant Studies (PA)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Vanessa Bester, EdD, MPAS, PA-C

Abstract

Hypertension (HTN) affects millions of people globally. With the rising burden of HTN in primary care and its associated morbidity and mortality, it is necessary to explore effective risk factor management to control and prevent it in people most at risk. This research addressed both modifiable risk factors such as obesity, smoking, alcohol, and diet as well as non- modifiable risk factors such as age, race/ethnicity, and family history. The aim of this paper was to examine the most effective risk factor management strategies to control and prevent hypertension. The studies reviewed indicate that there are various risk factor management strategies that are deemed effective in reducing blood pressure (BP) and improving HTN management. These approaches include increasing physical exercise, diet therapy such as the DASH diet, weight loss, and smoking cessation and limited alcohol intake. While each of these strategies is effective, patient adherence to guidelines is essential to promote desirable outcomes. Lastly, regular health check-ups among at-risk populations are effective in managing the risk factors through early detection. Future studies can examine how the implementation of these strategies can minimize or eliminate the need for medication.

Identifier

SC 11.PAS.2021.Barasa.S

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