Browsing by Author "Aboje, Samson Benjamin"

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    Knowledge, attitude and behaviour of secondary school learners towards hypertension and its risks in Burgersfort, Limpopo, South Africa.
    (University of Fort Hare, 2025) Aboje, Samson Benjamin; Mtise, T.
    Hypertension is a growing global health concern affecting both adults and adolescents. Secondary school learners who are a major subgroup of adolescents are particularly vulnerable due to limited awareness and the formation of long-term health behaviours during this developmental stage. Without timely intervention, early risk may lead to the onset of hypertension and associated complications in adulthood. This study employed a quantitative research approach and descriptive design to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours related to hypertension among secondary school learners in Burgersfort, Limpopo Province, South Africa. A total of 366 learners were randomly selected from three public secondary schools. Data was collected using a self-developed, structured online questionnaire. A pilot study confirmed the reliability of the instrument, yielding acceptable Cronbach’s alpha values for all sections. Study results revealed significant gaps in secondary school learners' knowledge of hypertension and its risks. Only a small proportion demonstrated accurate understanding of the condition. Attitudes towards hypertension reflected moderate concern, while behavioural practices were generally insufficient to prevent the onset of hypertension. The data suggests disconnection between awareness and health promoting actions among the secondary school learners. In conclusion, the study underscores the need for comprehensive, school-based health education interventions aimed at improving knowledge, fostering positive attitudes, and encouraging preventive behaviours related to hypertension. Such efforts are essential to decrease the early onset of hypertension and reduce long-term health risks in the secondary school learners’ population.