Knowledge, Attitudes and Preventive Practices toward COVID-19 among Hypertensive and Diabetic Patients in Karachi: A Cross-Sectional Study Research Article
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Abstract
Background: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, has had a significant impact on individuals with chronic conditions such as hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM). These patients are at a higher risk of complications and poorer outcomes. Understanding their awareness of natural and integrative prevention and treatment strategies is essential for improving disease management and resilience during pandemics.
Objective: To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices (KAP) regarding COVID-19 among patients with chronic hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus, focusing on their awareness of natural remedies and integrative treatment options.
Methods: A cross-sectional, multicenter study was conducted in Karachi, Pakistan, from July to September 2024. Data were collected from 150 adult patients diagnosed with HTN, DM, or both using a structured, pre-validated questionnaire. Participants were recruited from hospitals including Dow, Agha Khan, Naimat Baigum, and Taj Complex. Associations between demographic variables (education level, locality, and disease type) and awareness levels were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Chi-square tests were used, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Out of 150 respondents, 80% were aware of the preventive benefits of fruits and vegetables, while 76% acknowledged the role of both herbal and allopathic medicines in treatment. Awareness significantly varied by education level, locality, and disease type. Participants with primary, secondary, or no formal education showed 100% awareness of prevention, whereas diploma holders had none. Urban residents demonstrated complete awareness of both prevention and cure strategies (100%), while rural participants had lower awareness levels (53.8% for prevention; 44.6% for cure). Patients with either HTN or DM alone exhibited significantly higher awareness than those with both conditions (p = 0.000 for all associations).
Conclusion: The study reveals a significant association between education, residence, and disease type with awareness of natural and integrative approaches among chronic HTN and DM patients. Enhanced educational outreach, especially in rural areas and among comorbid patients, is necessary to improve preventive behavior and therapeutic understanding during infectious disease outbreaks such as COVID-19.
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