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

Abstract

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.