Public's Knowledge of Renal Failure and its Associated Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study

Public Knowledge of Renal Failure

Abstract

Background: Kidney failure, encompassing acute and chronic conditions, poses significant public health challenges globally, with high morbidity and mortality rates. Limited public awareness and knowledge of its risk factors, symptoms, and treatments hinder early detection and effective management.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the public's knowledge of renal failure and its associated risk factors in Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May to August 2024, involving 430 participants selected through convenience sampling. A structured, validated electronic questionnaire assessed socio-demographics, general knowledge, awareness of risk factors, symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and treatments. Descriptive and inferential statistics were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with significance set at p<0.05.
Results: Out of 422 valid responses, 81.8% of participants demonstrated moderate knowledge of kidney failure, while 18.2% had no knowledge. Awareness of risk factors was reported by 77.3%, with diabetes (54.7%) and NSAIDs (51.4%) most commonly identified. Knowledge of treatment options was reported by 79.4%, though only 25.4% and 37.2% recognized dialysis and kidney transplants, respectively. Education, age, and urban residence significantly influenced awareness levels (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The study identified notable gaps in knowledge about kidney failure and its associated factors among Sialkot population. Tailored educational interventions and public health strategies are essential to address these gaps and promote early detection.

Keywords: Chronic kidney disease, Dialysis, Health awareness, Kidney failure, Kidney transplant, Public knowledge, Renal failure.