Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of High-Risk Patients towards Prevention and Early Detection of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in Saudi Arabia

Context: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by the presence of kidney damage or decreased kidney function. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the prevalence of CKD is at 5.7%, which represents a high burden on health care systems. Aims: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of high-risk patients towards prevention and early detection of chronic kidney disease in Saudi Arabia. Setting and Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia. Methods and Material: This study was designed using a newly developed instrument, the CKD Screening Index. It was conducted from December 2021 to May 2022 by a self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire has three parts: socio-demographic data, clinical factors, and the CKD screening index tool. Statistical analyses used: Independent t-test, One-Way ANOVA, LSD, Games-Howell tests. Results: Knowledge of kidney function had a significant difference across patient groups with varying employment status. Monthly income is a significant factor for the patient attitude on healthcare towards preventing kidney disease. On the other hand, educational level significantly affects the overall attitude of patients towards preventing kidney disease. Conclusion: Understanding knowledge, attitudes, and practices associated with CKD is vital to informing optimal policy and public health responses in the country.

Automated summary

This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of high-risk patients towards prevention and early detection of chronic kidney disease in Saudi Arabia. The results showed significant differences in knowledge of kidney function across patient groups with varying employment status, and income level significantly influenced patient attitudes towards preventing kidney disease. Additionally, educational level significantly affected overall patient attitudes towards preventing kidney disease. Understanding knowledge, attitudes, and practices associated with CKD is vital to informing optimal policy and public health responses in the country.