Prevalence of chronic kidney disease among people living with diabetes mellitus and hypertension at Manhyia District Hospital

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant health concern, particularly among patients with comorbid conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. This study aims to assess the prevalence of CKD, medication adherence, health behaviors, and patient knowledge in a population with these chronic conditions. By analyzing data from a hospital database, this research identifies key areas for intervention to improve patient outcomes and manage the progression of CKD.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Manhyia District Hospital among a conveniently sampled 200 patients living with diabetes, hypertension, and both conditions. A checklist was used to assess the number of cases, and semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect data on sociodemographics, knowledge level, and the risk factors of CKD. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27.0 and Microsoft Excel 2013.

Results: The prevalence of CKD was highest among patients with both hypertension and diabetes (31.34%), compared to those with only diabetes (15.31%) or hypertension (11.91%). The study showed that 60% were living with low-risk factors of CKD, 30% were living with mild risk factors, and 10% were living with high-risk factors of CKD. The two main risk factors were obesity and non-compliance with medications. The knowledge level about CKD was generally poor, with about 11% who had not even heard about CKD and as high as 50% having poor knowledge about the functions of the kidneys. 

Conclusions: The prevalence of CKD among patients living with hypertension and diabetes mellitus comorbid was high due to non-adherence to hypertensive and diabetic medications, knowledge regarding CKD was poor, and there were low-risk factors contributing to CKD.