Supplement Use among Hypertensive Patients in Two Rural and Two Urban Health Centers in Guyana, South America

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to comparatively assess the knowledge and practices related to the use of dietary supplements as adjunctive treatment and management for hypertension among patients attending two rural and two urban health centers in Guyana. Methods: A cross-sectional, mixed-methods design was employed to evaluate the prevalence, patterns, and motivations for dietary supplement use among 144 hypertensive adults (71 urban, 73 rural) in Guyana, with a focus on the influence of cultural practices on healthcare approaches. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which was pretested in a pilot study to ensure validity and reliability. Results: The study sample consisted of 64% female and 36% male participants, with the majority (57%) being over 60 years of age. Urban participants predominantly used vitamin and mineral supplements, demonstrating a statistically significant association between supplement use and blood pressure classification (χ² = 7.16, p = .007). Conversely, rural participants more frequently relied on herbal remedies, particularly for preventive purposes. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for larger-scale, longitudinal studies to comprehensively explore the interplay between cultural influences, dietary supplement use, and hypertension management in Guyana. Such research is essential for informing the development of culturally sensitive public health interventions to enhance hypertension care in diverse populations.