Knowledge of Hypertension, Risk Factors and Awareness Among Students in Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Ogun State

Abstract

Hypertension is a major global health challenge, with increasing prevalence among young adults in developing countries
like Nigeria. University students are particularly at risk due to lifestyle transitions involving poor diet, physical inactivity,
stress, and limited awareness. The aim of the study was to assess hypertension knowledge, risk factors, and awareness
among students at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State. This is a quantitative research study using
a cross-sectional design, selecting 425 undergraduate students from Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta through a
multi-stage sampling technique. Data collection involved structured questionnaires, with analysis carried out using SPSS
version 23. Results revealed that a majority of participants (46.6%) were aged 21-23, with more than half being female
(57.2%). Most students (97.4%) did not have hypertension. However, approximately half of the students (50.6%) exhibited
low knowledge about hypertension, and 29.2% were at high risk of developing the condition. A significant portion (28.2%)
relied on internet websites for information about hypertension, and an overwhelming majority (92.9%) believed there was
a need for increased public awareness and education regarding hypertension management and prevention within the
university. In conclusion, the study underscores a substantial knowledge gap, identifies significant risk factors, and stresses
the importance of proactive healthcare interventions to raise awareness and mitigate hypertension risks among FUNAAB
students