2025, Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part C

Objective: To assess the knowledge and self-reported practice regarding the DASH diet among hypertensive patients and to develop an information booklet to enhance dietary self-care.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 30 hypertensive patients attending Akash Hospital, Devanahalli, Karnataka. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire comprising demographic variables, 30 items on knowledge, and 30 items on self-reported practice regarding the DASH diet. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-square test) with SPSS version 26.

Results: The majority of participants (83.4%) were aged above 50 years, and 53.3% were female. Most were non-vegetarian (76.7%) and had limited education (73.4% were illiterate or primary educated). About 80% of patients had moderate knowledge, 20% had inadequate knowledge, and none demonstrated adequate knowledge. Regarding practice, 86.7% reported moderate practice levels, while 13.3% showed adequate adherence. A significant association was found between knowledge level and gender (?² = 20.7, p = 0.001) and diet type (?² = 0.172, p = 0.001), while other variables were not significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: Hypertensive patients exhibited moderate knowledge and practice regarding the DASH diet, with notable gaps in understanding and adherence. Educational interventions, including nurse-led teaching and culturally appropriate information booklets, are essential to improve dietary practices and long-term blood pressure control.