Physical Activity Intervention Plan for Hypertensive Patients of Umlazi Township, KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

Background The global increase in hypertension, fueled by aging populations, sedentary lifestyles, and obesity, presents serious health challenges, including elevated risks of cardiovascular diseases and early mortality. Addressing this issue effectively necessitates a holistic healthcare approach that combines medication with lifestyle changes like physical activity, while also incorporating family support and exercise professionals into primary care for personalised treatment plans and improved adherence. Aim The principal aim of this study was to ascertain whether the implementation of a physical activity intervention plan, coupled with family member involvement within the primary healthcare sector, would contribute to the effective management of hypertension among hypertensive patients residing in the community of Umlazi Township, KwaZulu-Natal. Methods This study adopted a multifaceted methodology to enhance evidence-based hypertension management practices through physical activity. Initiating with a scoping review, it identified and organised relevant literature to establish a solid evidence foundation for a randomised controlled trial. The research included 12 weeks randomised controlled trial into intervention, and the control group assessing the impact of physical activity on hypertension management and secondary outcomes, thus providing a thorough evaluation of the intervention's effectiveness. Moreover, a qualitative inquiry further explored the comprehension and involvement of family members in managing hypertension. Results The review identified nine effective physical activity-based interventions out of 31 studies, indicating their success in reducing blood pressure and strengthening cardiovascular health. Notably, aerobic and interval training emerged as especially beneficial. The trial demonstrated significant progress in the Intervention Group (n = 36) compared to the IX Control Group (n = 37), particularly in 6-minute walk test results, without major changes in cardiovascular and anthropometric metrics over 12 weeks, underscoring the benefits on physical performance and potential heart health advantages. The qualitative analysis (n = 9) exposed a general lack of hypertension awareness among family members and a gap in their support levels. Discussion and Conclusion Conclusively, the study underscored the critical role of augmenting physical activity in managing hypertension, evidenced by its 12-week investigation at the Umlazi Township AA clinic. Though, it reaffirmed the synergy of pharmacological and lifestyle interventions, affirmed by physical activity and familial engagement, in enhancing hypertension care. Despite certain constraints like small sample size and brief intervention span, the findings advocate for an expanded clinical utilisation of physical activity in hypertension treatment, promoting prolonged and consistent exercise routines as integral to a comprehensive management strategy.