Social Ecology of Adherence to Hypertension Treatment in Latino Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers

Abstract

Purpose: This study explored Latino migrant/seasonal farmworkers' (MSFWs') adherence to hypertension treatment.

Design: A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted.

Method: Forty-five Latino MSFWs from two farmworker health clinics completed Spanish versions of the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, the Blood Pressure Knowledge Scale and Blood Pressure Self-Care Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale, the Acculturation Rating Scale for Mexican Americans-II, the Short Assessment of Health Literacy for Spanish-Speaking Adults, health care access questions, and blood pressure measurements.

Results: MSFWs had poor medication adherence (51%). Blood pressure knowledge, perceived stress, acculturation, health literacy, and health care access accounted for 49% of the variance in blood pressure self-care. Higher acculturation level and health literacy were associated with better blood pressure control (p = .01).

Discussion: MSFWs had poor medication adherence and blood pressure control. Blood pressure knowledge and acculturation played a role in blood pressure self-care.

Implications: Culturally appropriate educational programs are needed to help MSFWs' adherence to hypertension treatment.

Keywords: Latino/Latina; adherence; cardiovascular; hypertension; migrant farmworkers.