Abstract
Objective: To analyze the follow-up and risk factors for stroke in hypertensive patients, as well as to verify the incidence of hypertension, to identify factors that may influence adherence to treatment, and to investigate the cardiovascular risks of hypertensive individuals. Methods: This is an exploratory, descriptive, quantitative study conducted at a Basic Health Unit in Cajazeiras, Paraíba, Brazil, the study population being composed of hypertensive patients enrolled in the HIPERDIA program. Results: There was a significant proportion of elderly women with low schooling who were exposed to risk factors such as overweight / obesity, sedentary individuals, mostly with a significant family history, and associated risk factors, especially diabetes mellitus. A positive self-perception of the health conditions was observed, although the individuals are under intensive drug treatment, using several individualized and associated drugs, linked to the precarious accomplishment of laboratory tests. Conclusion: A high risk for stroke was observed in patients with hypertension, such as sedentary lifestyle. It is important to consider that a positive perception about health can influence the deficit of self-care due to the low perception of the risks of the disease to life, which demands of the acting professionals an attitude towards this reality.