Effect of a Health Literacy Program on Salt and Sodium Consumption on Health Outcomes among Adults with Uncontrolled Hypertension in a Community

Abstract

This research is a quasi-experimental study with two groups, measuring outcomes before and after the experiment. The objective was to examine the effects of a salt and sodium consumption literacy promotion program on literacy levels, consumption behaviors, and health outcomes among 30 adults with uncontrolled hypertension. The sample was divided into control and experimental groups, with 15 participants in each group. Research tools included a salt and sodium consumption literacy promotion program, personal information questionnaires, salt and sodium consumption literacy assessment, consumption behavior assessment, and blood pressure measurement devices. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, Wilcoxon Signed Rank, and Mann-Whitney U test. The research findings revealed that after 8 weeks of program participation, the experimental group showed statistically significantly higher mean scores for salt and sodium consumption literacy and consumption behaviors compared to their pre-experiment scores and the control group (p < .05). Additionally, the experimental group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in systolic blood pressure compared to their pre-experiment levels and lower than the control group (p < .05). However, no significant differences were found in diastolic blood pressure and urinary sodium levels. The results indicate that this program is effective in increasing literacy and modifying consumption behaviors, which positively impacts systolic blood pressure control in patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Therefore, medical and public health professionals are recommended to apply this program for preventing and controlling hypertension in community settings.