EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF REGULAR 45 MINUTES WALKING EXERCISE AS HYPERTENSION MANAGEMENT STRATEGY AMONG SEDENTARY STAFF IN UNIVERSITY OF DELTA, AGBOR

This study, titled "Evaluating the Effectiveness of Regular 45 Minutes Walking Exercise as Hypertension Management Strategy Among Sedentary Staff in University of Delta Agbor," investigates the impact of regular walking on blood pressure among sedentary university staff. Hypertension is a significant global public health issue, and sedentary lifestyles contribute to its rising prevalence, particularly in academic settings where staff often engages in prolonged sitting.​The research aimed to evaluate if consistent walking could significantly reduce blood pressure levels and explore factors influencing adherence to such a regimen. It also identified perceived barriers and facilitators to incorporating walking into daily routines and assessed additional health benefits beyond blood pressure reduction. The study adopted a quasi-experimental design, comparing an intervention group participating in a structured walking program with a control group. A sample of 290 staff members from the University of Delta, Agbor, was selected using Yamane's formula and stratified random sampling, with 150 in the intervention group and 140 in the control group.​ Key findings indicate that regular walking significantly reduces both systolic and diastolic blood pressure among sedentary staff. The study found a generally high level of adherence to the walking regimen, with strong positive attitudes towards its effectiveness. While time constraints and fatigue after work were identified as major barriers, encouragement from health practitioners and health education programs were seen as significant facilitators. Beyond blood pressure reduction, participants experienced other health benefits, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood and mental well-being, and better rest and sleep. The findings underscore the potential of regular walking as a cost-effective, accessible, and sustainable non-pharmacological intervention for hypertension management and overall well-being in academic institutions.