PREVENTIVE MEASURES TO CONTROL SYSTEMIC ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION IN MEN IN A MUNICIPALITY IN THE STATE OF PARAÍBA, BRAZIL

Abstract

Objective: To identify the impact of hypertension and its aggravating factors on men’s daily lives, as well as to verify the preventive measures taken for hypertension control. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional field study, with a quantitative approach and probabilistic sample, calculated for a finite population, comprising 70 men with hypertension accompanied by the Family Health Teams of a municipality. Results: The main preventive measures taken to control hypertension were: hyposodic diet (29%), routine monitoring by a physician/nurse (66%); and anti-smoking (24%) and anti-alcohol (24%) actions. Among the main preventive measures encouraged by health professionals stand out healthy eating habits (38%) and monitoring of drug therapy (14%). Conclusion: SAH interferes in the men’s lives who maintain harmful habits considered risk factors for hypertension, such as smoking, alcohol consumption and sedentarism. The major control measure adopted was the hyposodic diet. Although men were shown to be satisfied with the health services provided, these facilities need to improve their support strategies, focusing on preventive actions that might reach the risk factors broadly. DESCRIPTORS Hypertension. Men's Health. Primary Health Care.