"Understanding knowledge and attitudes regarding hypertensive disorders of pregnancy among expectant women in Brunei Darussalam: A nationwide study"

Background

The primary cause of maternal and fetal mortality due to hypertensive disorders in pregnancy is delays in accessing healthcare services. These delays are often attributed to insufficient knowledge, attitudes at the time of diagnosis, and a lack of awareness regarding the condition, including its critical warning signs and symptoms.

Aim

To evaluate pregnant women's initial knowledge and attitudes upon receiving their first diagnosis of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

Methods

A cross-sectional quantitative design was used to assess the knowledge and views of 216 expectant mothers on hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) across three high-risk clinics in Brunei Darussalam. Participants were selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a bilingual self-administered questionnaire, adapted from a validated instrument. Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses, including t-tests, One-Way ANOVA, and multiple regression, were conducted using SPSS (Version 23).

Results

Among 216 participants, 69 % demonstrated good knowledge of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy (p < 0.001). Despite positive attitudes towards seeking medical help (p < 0.001), 69 % initially opted for home remedies, and 50 % avoided hospitals unless necessary, leading to delays in healthcare-seeking behaviour. The findings highlight the need for targeted health campaigns to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice, ensuring timely medical intervention for hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.

Conclusion

The study reveals significant knowledge gaps and attitudes contributing to delayed healthcare-seeking behaviours. Targeted health campaigns and culturally sensitive educational programs are essential to improve timely medical interventions and maternal outcomes in Brunei Darussalam.