Razi Journal of Medical Sciences

Background: Nowadays, high blood pressure is the most important risk factor for heart disease, stroke and kidney diseases and education is one of the most effective factors that reduces high blood pressure. This study aimed to determine the effect of education on knowledge, attitude and preventive behaviors of high blood pressure based on group discussion in women 20-49 years old Islamshahr City.

Methods: This research is an interventional study. Samples were selected by random cluster sampling methods, 112 mothers of elementary school girls and boys were divided in two groups (n=56 per group). Subjects completed the researcher-made questionnaire in the first stage. Then, an educational program covering 2 one-hour sessions of group discussion was held for 4 groups, each having 10 members and 2 groups of 8 members (2 sessions per week). Two months after intervention, the questionnaires were completed by the subjects. Data was analyzed by chi-square test and ANOVA with repeated measure was used with SPSS21.

Results: After intervention, knowledge scores increased in the intervention group compared to the control group (p<0.001). Also attitude and behavior after intervention were significantly increased in the intervention group compared to the other one (p<0.001).

Conclusion: The results showed that discussion method in the intervention group had a significant effect on knowledge, attitudes and behaviors of high blood pressure.