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A study of the frequency and pattern of non-drug therapies among patients with some cardiovascular diseases at the university of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria


S.E. Aghaghowa
F Asulimen
I.C. Eze

Abstract

Background: Since complications and therapeutic failures are common with cardiovascular diseases, it became necessary to assess the pattern of Non-drug therapies as a tool in enhancing the outcome of therapy.

Aim: To assess the frequency of Non-drug therapies among patients with some cardiovascular diseases in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria.

Method: Structured questionnaires were distributed systematically among patients that came for follow-up during their therapies.

Result: Among the four hundred and five patients that participated, 67.64% were Hypertensive, 23.05% were Diabetic and 9.31% had Congestive Heart Failure. Their duration of management was 4.89±1.36years [Mean±SD]. Ages were between 27 and 81 years. Male\female ratio 1:1.8. Acetylsalicylic acid 75mg and amiloride/hydrochlorothiazide were the most frequently prescribed medications as cardio-protective and antihypertensive respectively. Awareness of Non-drug therapies was claimed by 82.34% of the respondents. Moderate exercise was practiced by 26.10%, reduction in salt intake by 66.70%, fatty food reduction by 38.10%, alcohol reduction by 20.95%, cessation of smoking by 11.10%, caffeine reduction by 0.90% and herbal medicines were used by 5.8% respondents. The herbal medicines were used by respondents were 21.56% Vernonia amygdalina, 13.57% Garcinia kola. 0.93% Allium sativum, 0.56% Cola acuminate. There was a significant difference in the frequency of Non-drug therapies among persons with cardiovascular illnesses p-value<0.001. Exercises were practiced by 14.43%, 23.33% and 5.27% that had hypertension, diabetes and heart failure respectively.

Conclusion: This study suggests that non-drug therapies are routinely being used. There is need for public health education on the benefits or otherwise of non-drug therapies; to enhance treatment outcomes.

Keywords: Pattern; Non-drug therapies; lifestyle; hypertension; diabetes; heart failure


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eISSN: 1596-6569