Knowledge and lifestyle modifications for dyslipidaemia among patients on statins in Pretoria

Abstract

Background: Nearly half of all non-communicable diseases are caused by cardiovascular diseases, for which one of the most important risk factors is dyslipidaemia. This study assessed the knowledge and lifestyle modification practices regarding dyslipidaemia among patients taking statins at Phedisong 4 Community Health Centre in Pretoria, South Africa.

Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study using a structured administered and piloted questionnaire.

Results: The mean age of the 268 participants was 60.1 years, with a minimum and maximum of 27 years and 89 years, respectively. High participation rates were seen among females (70.2%), those who were overweight (44.8%), adults with high school level education (48.1%), pensioners (54.1%), those with low incomes (83.2%), non-smokers (86.9%), and people with co-morbid conditions, including hypertension (92.2%) and diabetes mellitus (31.0%). Findings revealed that 66.3% of participants with dyslipidaemia adjusted their lifestyles, despite poor knowledge. There was a significant relationship between poor knowledge and poor practices in 55.6% of the participants (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: This study found that participants’ lack of information about dyslipidaemia did not affect their behaviour because more than half of them practiced lifestyle modifications, which can be related to the study sample’s over 90% concomitant hypertension diagnosis. Ongoing education on dyslipidemia should be addressed through a variety of venues, including health education at different health institutions.

Contribution: It is necessary to maintain ongoing education of patients about dyslipidaemia, its treatment, and related lifestyle modifications through a variety of channels, including health education in different health facilities around Pretoria.