This study investigated whether a structured patient-centred education programme was more effective than the normal ad hoc information that patients receive in improving their knowledge of hypertension whilst in hospital. Forty patients were assessed to determine their knowledge level regarding the management of risk factors related to hypertension. A pre-test was performed shortly after admission to hospital. Twenty patients in the test group received a structured education programme, and 20 patients in the control group received the usual ad hoc information. Two post-tests were performed, one at the time of discharge and the other approximately 8 weeks after discharge, to determine the change in knowledge levels. Comparison of the pre- and post-tests of the test group revealed a significant increase in knowledge level at the time of discharge from hospital. Patients were found to retain this new knowledge at 8 weeks and 1 year after discharge. No significant difference was found for the control group. This study has shown that a structured approach to health education is more effective in improving patients' knowledge about their condition than relying on the ad hoc information that patients traditionally receive during their hospitalization.