PloS one
Exploring patient perspectives on barriers contributing to lost to follow-up in hypertension care: A qualitative study in a tertiary-care hospital in Coastal Karnataka, India
By Kamath R, Stanley W, Hazarika PP and 2 others.
Abstract
Background
Hypertension requires lifelong treatment and regular follow-up to prevent complications; however, lost to follow-up (LTFU) remains a major challenge in long-term hypertension care, particularly in resource-constrained settings.
Objective
This study explored patient perspectives on barriers contributing to LTFU in hypertension management.
Methods
A qualitative study was conducted among 32 hypertensive patients who were LTFU at a tertiary care hospital in Coastal Karnataka, India. Participants were aged 31-69years, with 21 (65.6%) men and 11 (34.4%) women. Participants were identified through hospital records and interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were conducted from February to April 2026 Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically following COREQ guidelines.