Predicting psychological factors affecting regular physical activity in hypertensive patients: Application of health action process approach model

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the factors affecting the behaviour of regular physical activity in patients with hypertension using the health action process approach (HAPA) model. Design: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 176 hypertension patients, in Astaneh-e-Ashrafiyeh, Guilan, Iran, 2018–2019. Methods: Data collection tools included demographic characteristics, medical history, the short form of International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and scales related to the HAPA model. The data were analysed using chi-square, independent t test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficient and path analysis on AMOS, version 23.0. Results: Action self-efficacy (β = 0.59), outcome expectancy (β = 0.20) and risk perception (β = 0.18) had a statistically significant effect on intention. Moreover, the path coefficient between intention (β = 0.35) and coping self-efficacy (β = 0.29) with physical activity was statistically significant. The results revealed that HAPA constructs were able to describe 45% of the variance in intention and 31% of the variance in physical activity behaviour. Conclusion: The HAPA model is a useful framework for describing the factors affecting physical activity in hypertension patients.