Honors Theses

Date of Award

5-2025

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Degree Name

BS

Department

International Studies and Political Science

Faculty Mentor

Nancy Rice

Advisor(s)

Alison Henry, Frances Mujica

Abstract

Hypertension is a leading contributor to cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality worldwide, with a disproportionate burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Despite relatively low rates of common behavioral risk factors, the Kasigau region of Kenya experiences high prevalence of hypertension and hypertension-related complications. This study explores self-efficacy, health beliefs, and management behaviors among adults in Kasigau to provide pilot quality improvement data for providers and future intervention planning. A cross-sectional, randomized survey of 45 adults was conducted at the Bughuta Clinic in southeastern Kenya. Participants completed a five-question hypertension-specific, self-efficacy assessment and a health belief model-based survey, with blood pressure measurements recorded during their clinic visit. Analyses examined overall trends, as well as differences by sex and medication management status. Significance testing (Student t-tests and Mann-Whitney rank sum analysis) revealed that managed patients reported significantly higher confidence in four out of five self-efficacy areas (p < 0.05) and stronger beliefs in treatment benefits, yet these factors alone were not associated with improved blood pressure control. Regression analysis also found that older age predicted lower confidence in self-managing hypertension (β = -6.661, p = 0.001). While most participants reported moderate to high self-efficacy and recognition of hypertension’s seriousness, clinical measurements showed poor blood pressure control in nearly all participants — only one individual met the criteria for normal BP. These results highlight the gap between confidence and outcomes and may point to structural and cultural barriers that limit effective hypertension management. These findings support the need for holistic, community-based interventions that go beyond patient education to address systemic health inequities in rural Kenyan communities.

Comments

© 2025 Shubhangi Singh ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Download

Share

COinS