WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

*Sarah Mohammed Saeed, Raed Khaleel Al-Hilli and Rasha Yasir Jasim

ABSTRACT

Background: No communicable diseases (NCDs), especially hypertension and diabetes, continue to cause considerable morbidity and death globally. Hypertension and diabetes are major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, chronic renal disease, and other serious consequences, emphasizing the need for screening and control. The project aims to determine the causes of low second-visit hypertension and diabetes screening attendance in primary care centers and find ways to increase screening rates and service quality. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted from April 1 to October 1, 2024, at three PHCCs in Baghdad to assess factors influencing low attendance for second visits in hypertension and diabetes screening. Structured questionnaires captured demographic, socioeconomic, behavioral, and health-related variables, including complications and healthcare preferences. The study explored adherence determinants and associated health outcomes. Results: The study revealed that second-visit adherence rates for hypertension and diabetes screening were highest in Saif PHC (50%) and lowest in Khadrah PHC (22%). Key factors influencing adherence included gender, education level, marital status, and family history of medical conditions, with females and higher-educated individuals showing greater willingness to return. Complications such as vision loss in diabetes patients were significantly associated with increased second-visit adherence. Non-smokers and those willing to visit without symptoms demonstrated higher adherence rates across all centers. Conclusion: Demographic, socioeconomic, and behavioural aspects must be considered to improve second-visit adherence. Future study should investigate personalised strategies to overcome these hurdles, improving hypertension and diabetes control.

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