Physical activity, rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes in hypertension

Aim of the research This study aimed to assess the impact of the level and type of physical activity in hypertensive patients on health behaviours, blood pressure control, and pharmacological treatment, as well as to provide preliminary data for future population-based research. Material and methods The study included 70 patients with arterial hypertension (59% women, 41% men), divided into two age groups: 45–59 and 60 years old. Conducted at the Municipal Hospital in Bielsko-Biala (May–November 2023), the study used a 36-question survey addressing physical activity, treatment, and anthropometric data. Data were analysed using Microsoft Excel and Python, with ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD tests; significance was set at p < 0.05. Results and conclusions The effect of physical activity and pharmacotherapy on blood pressure was evaluated in 5 patient groups. ANOVA showed no significant differences in systolic pressure reduction (p = 0.666) but revealed significant differences for diastolic pressure (p = 0.003). The greatest diastolic pressure reduction occurred in younger patients combining pharmacological treatment with physical activity. Participation in cardiac rehabilitation significantly improved blood pressure control and encouraged healthier lifestyle behaviours among hypertensive patients.