Nutritional Education and Prevention of Arterial Hypertension in Adolescents: A Study at Francisco Manyanga Secondary School, Tete 2025

Abstract

The study entitled “Evaluation of Nutritional Education Interventions in the Prevention of Arterial Hypertension Among Adolescents Aged 15 to 19 at Francisco Manyanga Secondary School, in the City of Tete, in 2025” aimed to assess the effectiveness of nutritional education interventions in preventing arterial hypertension among adolescents. The research sought to determine the extent to which educational actions contribute to the adoption of healthy eating habits and the reduction of risk factors associated with hypertension, a major chronic non-communicable disease in public health.

The study employed a descriptive and analytical quantitative design involving 80 adolescents enrolled at Francisco Manyanga Secondary School. The intervention consisted of four structured educational sessions delivered weekly over one month, covering topics such as balanced diet, reduction of salt and sugar intake, avoidance of ultra-processed foods, and the importance of regular physical activity. Sessions were conducted through interactive lectures, group discussions, and visual aids. Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires assessed nutritional knowledge, dietary habits, perceptions, and risk factors. Anthropometric measurements and blood pressure readings were also collected at baseline and after the intervention.

Results indicated a marked improvement in nutritional knowledge, with the proportion of correct responses increasing from 42.5% at baseline to 76.3% post-intervention. Reported appreciation for fruits and vegetables increased, though consumption remained concentrated in the “sometimes” category. Soft drink consumption persisted as a risk factor, with 47.5% of participants reporting intake “sometimes.” Regular meal practices showed moderate improvement. Statistical analysis using paired t-tests confirmed significant differences in knowledge scores (p < 0.01), while changes in reported behaviors were less consistent. No statistically significant differences were observed in blood pressure measurements.

In conclusion, nutritional education interventions were effective in improving knowledge and attitudes, initiating behavioral changes, but did not demonstrate measurable reductions in blood pressure within the short intervention period. The findings highlight the importance of continuous reinforcement, integration into school curricula, family involvement, and supportive food environments to consolidate healthy practices.