Prevalence of Psychological Distress, Cognitive Functioning, and Health Literacy among Hypertensive Patients: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a global health problem associated with cardiovascular, neurocognitive and psychological problems and it is possible that health literacy could have an impact in the problem management. Objective: To compare the prevalence of hypertension according to participants' levels of psychological distress, cognitive functioning, and health literacy. Methods: It is a cross-sectional, descriptive study with a sample of 200 people with hypertension, who were tested with the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the standardized Health Literacy Scale. Results showed mean psychological distress 33.15 (SD=6.93), with 84% at severe psychological distress and health literacy 35.26 (SD=8.11), with 71.5% at health literacy inadequate (33–48) and none having the highest health literacy (49–86). In conclusion, severe psychological distress, pervasive cognitive deficits and poor health literacy were highlighted in hypertensive patients, and regular psychological screening and health literacy in hypertension would be warranted.

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22665783