EFFECTIVENESS OF A NURSE-LED DASH DIET AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY INTERVENTION ON BLOOD PRESSURE, BODY MASS INDEX, AND CARDIOVASCULAR RISK AMONG ADULTS WITH STAGE 1 HYPERTENSION

Abstract

Background

Hypertension is a major modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. Individuals with Stage 1 hypertension are particularly suitable for early lifestyle-based interventions because dietary modification, regular physical activity, weight management, and other behavioural changes can contribute substantially to blood pressure control and reduction of long-term cardiovascular risk. Nurses have an important role in providing structured education, behavioural counselling, monitoring, motivation, and follow-up. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating pattern combined with regular physical activity provides a practical non-pharmacological strategy for hypertension management.

Methods

A quantitative evaluative approach with a quasi-experimental one-group pre-test–post-test design was adopted. A total of 50 adults with Stage 1 hypertension were selected through purposive sampling from Shyma Hospital, Dewas. Baseline assessment included systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), body mass index (BMI), and cardiovascular risk score. Participants received a structured nurse-led intervention consisting of DASH dietary education, reduction of sodium intake, promotion of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, weight-management counselling, and a planned moderate-intensity physical activity programme. Follow-up reinforcement and monitoring were provided throughout the intervention period. Post-test measurements were obtained after 12 weeks.

Results

The mean systolic blood pressure decreased from 137.84 ± 4.92 mmHg at pre-test to 128.26 ± 5.38 mmHg at post-test, while mean diastolic blood pressure decreased from 86.48 ± 2.71 mmHg to 80.62 ± 3.34 mmHg. Mean BMI decreased from 27.86 ± 3.12 kg/m² to 26.91 ± 3.04 kg/m². The mean estimated cardiovascular risk score decreased from 10.42 ± 3.71% to 8.34 ± 3.18%. The differences between pre-test and post-test measurements were statistically significant (p<0.001).

Conclusion

The nurse-led DASH diet and physical activity intervention was effective in improving blood pressure, BMI, and cardiovascular risk among adults with Stage 1 hypertension. Incorporating structured nurse-led lifestyle programmes into routine hypertension care may strengthen early management and prevention of cardiovascular complications.