Health Literracy pattern about hypertension among village health volunteers (VHVs), Chiangrai Province.

Abstract

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose a significant global public health challenge, impacting the health of populations and national development. Addressing the risk factors through community health volunteers' (CHVs) health knowledge can contribute to preventing conditions such as hypertension. CHVs play a crucial role in public health, serving as exemplary figures in disseminating accurate and appropriate health information to the community.

Objectives: 1. To investigate factors influencing the health knowledge of CHVs regarding hypertension. 2. To explore the levels of health knowledge on hypertension among CHVs.

Methods: This study adopted a mixed-methods research design conducted concurrently. The research employed a comprehensive approach by integrating both quantitative and qualitative methods. CHVs from various zones were selected using a multi-stage sampling method based on the development of health service units in four districts. Data were collected from 455 CHVs using a quantitative survey and from a subset of 40 CHVs through qualitative interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficients, and qualitative data were content analyzed, focusing on improving the training models, actual practices, and developing knowledge on hypertension.

Results: Overall, CHVs exhibited a high level of health knowledge on hypertension. Breaking down the knowledge into components such as understanding, access to information, health communication, timely awareness, and correct decision-making revealed consistently high levels. However, there were limitations in accessing and managing information, transferring information, and changing personal behaviors to reduce hypertension risks. Personal baseline factors and health behaviors did not correlate significantly hypertension knowledge.

Conclusion and recommendations: CHVs demonstrated a high level of health knowledge on hypertension, particularly in self-management skills at a moderate level. However, there is a need for increased awareness of the consequences and subsequent inadequate self-management. Therefore, Chiangrai Provincial Public Health Office should implement policies to enhance CHVs' knowledge, focusing on self-management, timely information and communication, and understanding hypertension. Providing financial support or necessary materials for CHVs would enhance their community engagement and effectiveness in promoting health practices.