Predictors Affecting Therapeutic Adherence in the Hypertensive Afro-Caribbean Populations in South Florida

Background: Hypertension is an astounding global public health challenge affecting more than 1 billion individuals worldwide with approximately 60 million in the United States (US). Hypertension has fervent implications for cardiovascular disease and premature death even though it is one of the most modifiable risk factors. Non-adherence to a therapeutic regimen is an international crisis, preventing efficacious management of chronic diseases like hypertension. Hypertension is independently responsible for a high rate of premature morbidity and mortality among the Afro-Caribbean populations. Literature has revealed that although individuals migrate across the globe they still maintain cultural practices that are germane to them. This can significantly influence their health care choices. As such, the social and cultural norms of the Afro-Caribbean populations are unique and may affect adherence to therapeutic regimens. Nine percent of the US immigrant population are from Caribbean countries. South Florida is home to the highest concentration of Caribbean immigrants. Therapeutic adherence practices for hypertension in the Afro-Caribbean population is not studied and must be isolated to curtail the deleterious effects of this disease process.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the predictors affecting therapeutic adherence in the hypertensive Afro-Caribbean populations in South Florida.

Methods: The study will utilize a descriptive qualitative design.

Implications: The ultimate goal of this study is to evaluate the predictors that affect adherence to hypertensive therapies among Afro-Caribbean populations in South Florida. This study may present a broader understanding of factors that influence adherence as it relates to treatment of hypertension. In addition, it may provide future assessments of treatment adherence among this population. The findings could also generate scientific discussions that facilitate exploration of similar factors among other cultural subsets with similar healthcare needs. A study of this caliber will create evidence that propel nurse researchers to conduct further studies that could evolve public policy to a global sphere.