Cultural barriers in the education of cardiovascular disease patients in Iran.
BACKGROUND
Cardiovascular diseases are responsible for the highest mortality rate in Iran; however, there is a lack of evidence for cultural factors influencing patient education. Such information is important for the provision of effective patient care.


OBJECTIVE
To identify key issues relating to cultural factors influencing education of cardiovascular disease patients in Iran.


METHODS
The qualitative research approach was used in this study, with open-ended interviews used to gather data. Eighteen nurses, four cardiovascular specialists, nine patients with cardiovascular disease and four family members were interviewed at two educational hospitals in Tehran. Interviews were taped, transcribed and analysed using constant comparative analysis.


RESULTS
Participants expressed a range of cultural factors influencing patient education. Five themes emerged from the analysis: (a) patients' lifestyle, (b) beliefs about disease and treatment, (c) concealment of true diagnosis, (d) different opinions regarding the preferred instructor, and (e) ineffective communication.


CONCLUSIONS
Findings show that cultural beliefs may act as risk factors for, or serve to intensify, cardiovascular disease. Consideration of these factors is essential for the success of patient education programmes.
Farahani
M A
MA
Department of Nursing, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
Mohammadi
E
E
Ahmadi
F
F
Maleki
M
M
Hajizadeh
E
E
D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003144:Communication Barriers; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006292:Health Priorities; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D007492:Iran; D008297:Male; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D036301:Qualitative Research