Effect of curriculum based on theory of planned behavior, on components of theory in patients with hypertension

Hypertension is one of the most common and important non-communicable diseases and health problems in the world today; nevertheless, it is preventable and controllable. Theory of Planned Behavior is one of the major theories that explains the process of adopting healthy behaviors. The present study aimed atat determining the effect of the theory on components of theory in patients with hypertension. This randomized controlled field trial study was done on 110 patients with hypertension in Zirkouh city who were divided into two equal groups. Validity and reliability of the questionnaire used were determined through face and content validity and through Cronbach’s alpha and test-retest, respectively. The obtained data was analyzed by means of SPSS software (V: 16) using statistical t-test and repeated analysis of variance. Both groups were similar regarding mean score of the theory components before intervention, but after the intervention the average scores of the experimental group increased. The attitude increased from 48.7 to 64.1, subjective norm from 34.9 to 43.1, perceived behavioral control from 33.8 to 43, intention behavior from 33.9 to 41.09 and behavior from 65.6 to 82.45); and these differences were statistically significant (P<0.001).However, nosignificant difference was observed in the control group. Regarding the positive effect of education based on The Theory of Planned Behavior in controlling hypertension, planning of a curriculum based on this theory is recommended.