Degree Name

DrPH (Doctor of Public Health)

Program

Public Health

Date of Award

5-2022

Committee Chair or Co-Chairs

Kate Beatty

Committee Members

Hadii Mamudu, Ying Liu

Abstract

Hypertension, a medical condition, predisposes to other cardiovascular diseases, and can be impacted by the social determinants of health (SDOH). Self-measured blood pressure monitoring (SMBP) is an evidence-based approach to hypertension control, but not much is known about the influence of SDOH on SMBP. This dissertation aims to: 1) highlight the SDOH factors whose relationship with SMBP have been explored in research studies; 2) examine the relationship between SDOH and SMBP among United States (U.S.) adults with high blood pressure; and 3) examine the current state of SMBP in the U.S., highlight policy implications from the empirical study and provide recommendations. Aims 1 and 2 were informed by an adapted SDOH framework, which comprised of upstream structural determinants, and downstream intermediary determinants. Aim 1 was achieved via a scoping review of studies across three databases following the PRISMA-SCR checklist. Aim 2 was achieved via a cross-sectional analysis of data from adult respondents to the 2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, with self-reported hypertension. Bivariate and Multiple Logistic regression analyses were conducted. Aim 3 involved a literature scan on policy concerning SMBP, highlighting the policy implications of findings from the empirical study, and providing recommendations for policy/practice. For aim 1, findings suggest that research studies examined the relationship of relatively more structural determinants, than the few, but highly significant intermediary determinants, with SMBP. For aim 2, looking at the structural determinants, males and those who identify as Black and other minority racial groups were more likely to report SMBP. For intermediary determinants, respondents who consumed fruits, vegetables, and exercised were likely to report SMBP, while those who smoke, who drink, and those with poor mental health days were less likely to report SMBP. Respondents with health coverage and whose provider recommended SMBP were likely to report SMBP use. Those ≥65 years were more likely to report SMBP. For aim 3, I recommend that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services lead policy efforts on SMBP reimbursements. Also, healthcare practices should strengthen their technological infrastructure e.g., telehealth to promote access, and Electronic Health Records to promote efficient data collection and tracking.

Document Type

Dissertation - embargo

Copyright

Copyright 2022 by Adekunle Olumide Oke.

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