Background
Lifestyle modification is a non-pharmacological strategy that can help reduce blood pressure significantly and it is very valuable in hypertension control.
Aim
To review available literature on lifestyle modification practices among hypertensive patients globally.
Methods
We searched and analysed studies published between 2019 and 2024 on adherence to lifestyle modifications by hypertension patients globally.
Results
Adherence to lifestyle modification varied significantly by region (I² = 85.2%, P < 0.001), with a pooled mean of 27.4% (95% CI: 19.8-35.1%): alcohol abstinence 86%, sodium restriction 54.6%, dietary adherence 47.7%, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol goal achievement 40%, and physical activity 34.3%. Barriers to lifestyle modification were lowlevel awareness, misconceptions about hypertension, financial constraints, difficulty adjusting to new habits, laziness, forgetfulness, stress, lack of motivation, social pressure, tasteless meals, use of traditional medicine, and time constraints.
Conclusion
Despite the well-established benefits of lifestyle modifications in the management of hypertension, adherence remains suboptimal globally. There is a need for targeted interventions to enhance adherence, including educational programmes, policy-driven initiatives and personalized support for patients.