Perceived barriers to blood pressure control: a qualitative study

Abstract

Introduction: perceptions and barriers that hinder blood pressure control exist, and their identification is essential.

Objective: to explore hypertensive patients' perceptions of blood pressure control and associated barriers.

Method: this was a qualitative, exploratory, phenomenological study conducted in Pinar del Río, Cuba, with a purposive sample of 26 hypertensive patients. Perceptions and barriers to blood pressure control were explored through direct interviews. An inductive qualitative content analysis was conducted, respecting medical ethics.

Results: five main barriers to hypertension control were identified, with patients reporting confusion about their condition, fear or mistrust of medications, inconsistent drug availability, limited access to specialists, and negative interactions with healthcare professionals. Lifestyle challenges were also identified, among other barriers, which together hinder effective disease management. The findings highlight the need for clear communication, culturally appropriate education, and strengthened support systems to improve adherence and promote healthy behaviors.

Conclusions: barriers to hypertension control were identified, including lack of information, low adherence to treatment, deficiencies in health services, unhealthy lifestyles, and insufficient social support. Based on this, the need for comprehensive, patient-centered interventions to improve disease management, increase quality of life, and reduce related complications is emphasized.