Background: The control of hypertension requires awareness, and monitoring of the disease through screening. Aim: The present study was undertaken to explore the knowledge of middle-aged and older African-Americans about hypertension, and to understand steps they are taking to prevent hypertension and its related consequences. Method: A qualitative research strategy with five focus groups of ten adults 55-83 years old each recruited through purposive sampling procedures participated in this study. Results: Seventy six percent of participants were not adequately informed about the nature of hypertension and stroke, although all participants were aware of risks for the disease posed by factors including the consumption of foods high in saturated fat, and lack of exercise. Conclusion: Lack of adequate knowledge about hypertension, related diseases, and perceived barriers to screening may hinder adequate control of the disease among this group.

hypertension, awareness, stroke, knowledge, screening, African-Americans