Doctor patient communication linked to blood pressure control

More patients control blood pressure well through medication if doctor to patient communication is improved. Researchers at Aga Khan University (AKU) have found evidence suggesting increased consultation time with physicians and improved communication are factors that may step up patient cooperation in adhering to blood pressure control medication. This week's British Medical Journal has published findings of a study included in AKU's Hypertension Project, which is being conducted in 12 communities in Karachi.

The current practices of general practitioners in management of hypertension in Pakistan and neighbouring countries are far less than adequate. About one in three adults have high blood pressure and control rates are poor. Moreover, busy practices of physicians barely permit adequate exchange of information with the patient.

The findings also highlight the importance of continuing medical education of general practitioners in management of hypertension. Even one day of intensive training can make significant difference. However, no mandatory requirements for continuing medical education exist in Pakistan and therefore opportunities remain scarce.

The study led by the Hypertension Research Group under the direction of Dr Tazeen Jafar,  Associate Professor, Medicine and Community Health Sciences, underscores the importance of creating resources for offering structured, short training courses for general practitioners, which not only emphasise simple and updated treatment guidelines in management of hypertension, but also doctor patient communication strategies for better health outcomes.

Commenting on these findings, Dr Jafar said, “We now have robust evidence for simple and low cost interventions to improve blood pressure control rates in our own setting. The governmental and professional societies and the physician community need to work together to translate these findings into policy and practice.”

AKU appreciates that the endemic problems of a region beset with financial difficulties and low development indicators can be addressed only through relevant research focusing on producing low cost, accessible and innovative solutions.

For further information, please contact:

• Rasool Sarang, Sr. Media Executive, at 486 3920 or rasool.sarang@aku.edu;  
• Hassaan Akhter, Media Executive, at 486 2927 or hassaan.akhter@aku.edu.