EFFECTS OF PARTICIPATORY ACTION-ORIENTED TRAINING (PAOT) INTERVENTION FOR HYPERTENSION MANAGEMENT AMONG INTERCITY VAN DRIVERS

Objectives: This study aims to evaluated the effectiveness of participatory action-oriented training (PAOT) intervention for hypertension management among intercity van drivers. Material and Methods: This quasi-experimental study applied concept and process of participatory actionoriented training and self-management to guide the development of the intervention addressing improvement in hypertension management behaviors. A total of 104 intercity van drivers with uncontrolled hypertension in Thailand were recruited to participate in this program. The intervention group (N = 52) received PAOT program, while the control group (N = 52) received conventional program. Data on hypertension management behaviors, and blood pressure were measured at baseline, 1 month and 3 months after intervention. Results: At 3 months after intervention, hypertension management behavior, and systolic blood pressure were significantly different between 2 groups (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This PAOT was found to be feasible and could potentially improve hypertension management, and blood pressure level of intercity van drivers. The program should be applied in further studies with other workplaces in both formal and informal sectors with different characteristics and other health issues.