Exploring the experiences of patients on coronary artery disease treatment at Roman Catholic Hospital-Cardiac center, Windhoek, Namibia
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Date
2025
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University of Namibia
Abstract
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a significant global health concern, contributing to
high mortality and disability rates. In Namibia, CAD accounts for 7.20% of total
deaths, driven by urbanization, lifestyle changes, and rising comorbidities such as
hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. This study explored the experiences of CAD
patients receiving treatment at the Roman Catholic Hospital-Cardiac Centre in
Windhoek, Namibia, to inform improved management strategies. Qualitative approach
with a descriptive, exploratory, and phenomenological design was used. A qualitative
phenomenological approach was used. Participants were purposefully sampled until data
saturation was achieved, which occurred with a final sample of six participants. Data was
collected through unstructured interviews and analyzed using Tesch's qualitative data
analysis method. The findings revealed two (2) main themes that are positive and
negative experiences of patients on the treatment of CAD; five (5) themes and eleven
(11) sub-themes. The positive experience being support system comprising family,
friends and health care system, and lifestyle modification. Lifestyle changes and strong
family support were found to be crucial in improving patient outcomes. The negative
experiences are emotional factors including stress and pain; risk factors including
comorbidities; and the consequences such as physical limitations and financial crisis.
The study findings will inform the policy makers and stakeholders to develop
preventative and management strategies that will enhance patient outcome. Patients on
coronary artery disease treatment have both negative and positive experiences that
affect various aspects of their life and influence outcome. The study recommends
educational programs and nationwide public health campaigns to raise awareness
about CAD symptoms, risk factors, and prevention strategies
Description
A theses submitted in Partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master in Public Health
Keywords
Health, Lifestyle changes, Patient experiences, Treatment, Namibia, University of Namibia