Prevalence of chronic kidney disease in diabetic adult out-patients in Tanzania

Low estimated glomerular filtration rate and proteinuria among adult diabetic patients in a tertiary hospital in Eastern Uganda - a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common complications of diabetes mellitus (DM). Diabetes mellitus contributes to about 66% of CKD cases globally. CKD results in increased morbidity and mortality and advanced stages often require kidney replacement therapy that is unaffordable for the majority of the patients. Developing countries have scanty data regarding CKD burden in diabetic patients.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed at determining the prevalence of low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and proteinuria and associated clinical and socio-demographic factors among adult diabetic patients attending the diabetic clinic of Mbale Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH).

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted at the adult diabetic clinic of MRRH in Eastern Uganda. A total of 374 adult diabetic patients were enrolled. A urine sample for urine albumin creatinine ratio (UACR) determination and a venous blood sample for measurement of serum creatinine were obtained from each participant. The eGFR was determined using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation and CKD was staged according to the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) classification.

RESULTS

A total of 318 (85%) participants had an eGFR of ≤ 60 mL/min/1.73m2, UACR of ≥ 30g/g, or both. Only 6.1% were aware. Age, duration of DM, hypertension, and dyslipidemia were associated with low eGFR and proteinuria.

CONCLUSION

There is a high prevalence of low eGFR and proteinuria among DM patients, 85% of the participants had these markers of CKD and the majority of them were undiagnosed. Over half of the DM patients had an eGFR consistent with advanced CKD. Strengthening routine screening for CKD biomarkers and equipping DM clinics with more diagnostic resources is recommended.

Prevalence of chronic kidney disease and its associated factors among diabetes mellitus patients in Dessie Referral Hospital, South Wollo, Ethiopia

Diabetes mellitus shares a large proportion of kidney failure. Despite many patients suffering from diabetes mellitus and its complications in Dessie City, no study was conducted in the study area that shows the prevalence and associated factors of chronic kidney disease among diabetes mellitus patients. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence of chronic kidney disease and its associated factors among adult diabetes mellitus patients attending Dessie Referral Hospital, South Wollo, Northeast Ethiopia. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Dessie Referral Hospital among 267 randomly selected adult diabetic patients. Data were collected using questionnaires administered by interviewers. The glomerular filtration rate was estimated from serum creatinine levels. Data were entered into Epi-data version 4.6 and analyzed using SPSS version 26 software. Multi-variable logistic regression was used to determine the strength of association for the associated factors of chronic kidney disease. Variables with a p value < 0.05 were used to ascertain statistically significant associations. A total of 267 diabetic patients participated in this study. About 104 (39%) of the respondents were female and from the total, 133 (48.1%) were hypertensive. The overall prevalence of chronic kidney disease in this study was 31.5% (95% CI 25.3-37.1%). Being older (p-value = 0.003) and having hypertension (p-value = 0.043) were significant factors for chronic kidney disease among diabetes mellitus patients. This study found a high prevalence (31.5%) of chronic kidney disease among diabetic patients. Older age, having hypertension, and elevated serum creatinine were statistically significant associated factors of chronic kidney disease among patients with diabetes mellitus. Thus, clinicians should be aware of the high prevalence of chronic kidney disease in Dessie City. Moreover, emphasis should be given for old age and hypertension as contributing factors to the high prevalence in diabetic patients.

Prevalence of diabetic kidney disease and the associated factors among patients with type 2 diabetes in a multi-ethnic Asian country

The actual prevalence of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Malaysia is unknown. We aimed to determine the prevalence of DKD and its associated risk factors among T2D patients in Malaysia. An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted using the year 2022 clinical audit dataset from the National Diabetes Registry. DKD was defined as albuminuria, a decreased glomerular filtration rate, or both. Among 80,360 patients, 62.2% were female, 68.4% were Malay, and the mean age was 61.4 years. A total of 56.7% (95% CI 56.4-57.1%) of patients were found to have DKD. Increasing age, male sex, Malay ethnicity, longer duration of diabetes, overweight, obesity, hypertension, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic foot ulcer, nontraumatic lower-extremity amputation, ischaemic heart disease, stroke, insulin, higher numbers of antihypertensive agents, antiplatelet agents, poorer HbA1c control, higher systolic blood pressure, non-achievement of triglyceride target, and non-attainment of HDL-cholesterol goal were independent risk factors associated with DKD. Clinicians, program managers, and health policymakers should target modifiable factors to manage DKD and prevent its progression to end-stage kidney disease in Malaysia.

Prevalence of Biomarkers and Associated Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease in Adult Diabetic Out-patients in a Tertiary Hospital in Eastern Uganda - a Cross-sectional Study

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common complications of Diabetes Mellitus (DM). DM contributes to about 66% of CKD cases globally. CKiiiD results in increased morbidity and mortality and advanced stages often require renal replacement therapy that is unaffordable for the majority of the patients. Developing countries have scanty data regarding CKD burden in diabetic patients.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed at determining the prevalence of biomarkers for CKD and associated factors among diabetic patients attending the adult diabetic clinic of Mbale Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at the adult diabetic clinic of Mbale Regional Referral Hospital in Eastern Uganda. 374 adult diabetic patients who consented, were recruited and interviewed. A urine sample for Urine Albumin Creatinine Ratio (UACR) determination and a venous blood sample for measurement of serum creatinine were obtained from each participant. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was determined using the CKD-EPI equation and CKD was staged according to the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) systems.

Results

A total of 318 (85%) participants had an eGFR of ≤ 60mls/min/1.72m2, significant proteinuria, or both. 6.1% were aware. Age, Duration of DM, Hypertension, and Dyslipidemia were associated with CKD biomarkers.

Conclusion

There is a high prevalence of biomarkers for CKD among DM patients, the majority of them being undiagnosed. Over half of the DM patients had an eGFR consistent with advanced CKD. Strengthening routine screening for CKD biomarkers and enhancing the DM clinics with more diagnostic resources is recommended.

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in central South Africa

BACKGROUND

 Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The prevalence of CKD among T2DM patients in Africa is 22.0%. The cut-off age for dialysing diabetic patients in the resource-limited state sector in South Africa is 50 years. Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients who develop CKD are likely to be excluded from chronic dialysis and rely on control of risk factors, including blood pressure and blood glucose levels, to prevent CKD progression. We aimed to determine the prevalence of CKD among T2DM patients attending the diabetes clinic at Pelonomi Academic Hospital, Bloemfontein.

METHODS

 In this retrospective cross-sectional study, medical records of patients (January 2016 and December 2018) were reviewed to collect demographic and clinical information.

RESULTS

 In total, 244 records were reviewed. Sixty-one (25.0%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 20% - 30.8%) T2DM patients had CKD. The rate of CKD was slightly higher in males (n = 24/81; 29.6%) compared with females (n = 37/163; 22.7%). Most patients with CKD (n = 58; 95.1%) were 50 years of age. Only 17.8% of patients achieved a glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) of 7.0%. Blood pressure was controlled in 14.3% of hypertensive patients. Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors were used by 78.6% of patients.

CONCLUSION

 A high prevalence of clinically significant CKD among T2DM patients with poor prospects of chronic dialysis in a resource-limited setting was observed. The risk factors for CKD development and progression should be adequately managed in T2DM patients.Contribution: This study emphasises the need for further research and innovation to improve outcomes of T2DM patients with CKD in resource-constrained settings.

Prevalence and risk factors of chronic kidney disease among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus at a tertiary care hospital in Nepal: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and determine the sociodemographic and clinical risk factors associated with CKD.

DESIGN AND SETTINGS

Cross-sectional study among diabetic outpatients of a tertiary hospital in Nepal.

PARTICIPANTS

201 patients with T2DM above 18 years of age.

INTERVENTION

Participants completed a questionnaire regarding their socioeconomic information and underwent pertinent physical and haematological examinations.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES MEASURE

The prevalence and risk factors of CKD among patients with T2DM.

RESULTS

The prevalence of CKD in T2DM was 86.6%. In univariable analysis, the variables like age (p=0.026), hypertension status (p=0.002), duration of diabetes (p=0.009) and haemoglobin levels (p=0.027) were significantly associated with CKD among the participants with T2DM. Kruskal-Wallis H test showed that age was significantly different between various CKD stages. Multivariate analysis demonstrated a significant relationship between CKD with age (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 3, 95% CI 1.1 to 8.8) and literacy status (AOR 5.8, 95% CI 1.4 to 24.6) CONCLUSION: Advancing age, concomitant hypertension, increasing duration of T2DM and presence of anaemia were found to be important risk factors of CKD. Age is the most important predictor of CKD showing increasing prevalence in the elderly population. Periodic screening tests are essential at an early age to identify kidney diseases at incipient stages, thereby preventing progression to end-stage renal disease.

Indicators of optimal diabetes care and burden of diabetes complications in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Contemporary data on the attainment of optimal diabetes treatment goals and the burden of diabetes complications in adult populations with type 2 diabetes in Africa are lacking. We aimed to document the current status of attainment of three key indicators of optimal diabetes care and the prevalence of five diabetes complications in adult African populations with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

We systematically searched Embase, PubMed and the Cochrane library for published studies from January 2000 to December 2020. Included studies reported any information on the proportion of attainment of optimal glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), blood pressure (BP) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) goals and/or prevalence of five diabetes complications (diabetic peripheral neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, foot ulcers and peripheral arterial disease). Random effect model meta-analysis was performed to determine the pooled proportion of attainment of the three treatment goals and the prevalence of five diabetes complications.

RESULTS

In total, 109 studies with a total of 63 890 participants (53.3% being females) were included in the meta-analysis. Most of the studies were conducted in Eastern African countries (n=44, 40.4%). The pooled proportion of attainment of an optimal HbA1c, BP and LDLC goal was 27% (95% CI 24 to 30, I²=94.7%), 38% (95% CI 30 to 46, I²=98.7%) and 42% (95% CI 32 to 52, I²=97.4%), respectively. The pooled prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy, peripheral arterial disease and foot ulcers was 38% (95% CI 31 to 45, I²=98.2%), 32% (95% CI 28 to 36, I²=98%), 31% (95% CI 22 to 41, I²=99.3%), 19% (95% CI 12 to 25, I²=98.1%) and 11% (95% CI 9 to 14, I²=97.4%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Attainment of optimal diabetes treatment goals, especially HbA1c, in adult patients with type 2 diabetes in Africa remains a challenge. Diabetes complications, especially diabetic peripheral neuropathy and retinopathy, are highly prevalent in adult populations with type 2 diabetes in Africa.

Factors Associated with Chronic Kidney Disease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in Bangladesh

Diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are a major public health burden in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to explore factors associated with CKD in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Bangladesh. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 315 adults with T2D presenting at the outpatient department of Bangladesh Institute of Health Sciences (BIHS) hospital between July 2013 to December 2013. CKD was diagnosed based on the estimated glomerular filtration rate using the ‘Modification of Diet in Renal Disease’ equations and the presence of albuminuria estimated by the albumin-to-creatinine ratio. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with CKD. The overall prevalence of CKD among patients with T2D was 21.3%. In the unadjusted model, factors associated with CKD included age 40–49 years (OR: 5.7, 95% CI: 1.3–25.4), age 50–59 years (7.0, 1.6–39), age ≥60 years (7.6, 1.7–34), being female (2.2, 1.2–3.8), being hypertensive (1.9, 1.1–3.5), and household income between 10,001 and 20,000 Bangladeshi taka, BDT (2.9, 1.0–8.2) compared with income ≤10,000 BDT. However, after adjustment of other covariates, only the duration of hypertension and household income (10,001–20,000 BDT) remained statistically significant. There is a need to implement policies and programs for early detection and management of hypertension and CKD in T2D patients in Bangladesh.

Risk factors associated with the development of diabetic kidney disease in Sudanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A case-control study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Limited data are available regarding the risk factors associated with the development of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) among Sudanese adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

A case-control study was conducted at Dr. Salma Center for Kidney Diseases between April and September 2019. Patients with T2DM and DKD were compared to age and sex-matched T2DM patients with no kidney disease (NKD). Socio-demographic features, clinical findings, and laboratory investigations of the study subjects and controls were analyzed using SPSS.

RESULTS

A total of 372 patients with DKD were compared to 364 T2DM patients with NKD. The mean age of the DKD patients was 58 ± 13.4 years, their median eGFR was 37.3 ± 4.9 ml/min/1.73 m²; they had their T2DM at a significantly younger age compared to controls (P = 0.014). Logistic regression analysis revealed that a family history of diabetes mellitus, a family history of chronic kidney disease, the presence of hypertension, obesity, hypercholesterolemia, hyperuricemia, smoking, recurrent urinary tract infection, and the regular use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were significantly associated with the development of DKD (P values < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

A series of modifiable risk factors were found to be significant determinants for developing DKD. Primary care physicians are expected to pay considerable attention to their control.

Diabetic kidney disease in patients newly diagnosed with type-2 diabetes mellitus: Incidence and associations

The global prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) in adults is increasing all over the world. Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of the most common complications of DM. The aim of the present work is to study chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients newly diagnosed with type 2 DM as regards incidence and associations. This is a comparative cross-sectional study. The study included 153 patients with newly diagnosed type 2 DM over the past six months. DKD was diagnosed if urinary albumin to creatinine ratio >30 mg/g in two out of three-morning urine samples collected within three to six months and/or estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m² using 2009 CKD-Epidemiology Collaboration creatinine equation. DKD was present in 45.75% of patients. In our study, 54.9% of patients had microalbuminuria, 39.2% had macroalbuminuria, and 5.9% had severely increased albuminuria. As regards eGFR, 5.2% of patients had eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m². Regression analysis showed that increased levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, and glycated hemoglobin were associated with an increased likelihood of developing nephropathy while nonsmoking and elevated high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were associated with a reduction in that likelihood. DKD was present in a substantial proportion of our patients at diagnosis. Routine screening for DKD is recommended in all patients early at the onset itself of diagnosis with type 2 DM.

Cross-sectional study of diabetes kidney disease in the Eastern Cape, South Africa

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an independent risk factor for the development of kidney disease. This study assesses the prevalence and determinants of asymptomatic kidney disease in individuals with DM attending health facilities in OR Tambo district, Eastern Cape, South Africa.In this cross-sectional analysis, medical data of 327 individuals receiving care for DM in primary health care centers in OR Tambo district, Eastern Cape between June and November 2013 were reviewed. Significant kidney disease was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m in accordance with the guidelines of the Society of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes of South Africa (2017).One-quarter of the 327 participants (n = 80) had significant kidney disease. Female sex [odds ratio (OR) = 5.2; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.2-23.5], never used alcohol (OR = 13.4; 95% CI 2.5-72.1), hypertension (OR = 16.2; 95% CI 2.0-130.0), triglyceride (TG)/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio (OR = 1.2; 95% CI 1.0-1.5), current smoker (OR = 1127.9; 95% CI 162.9-7808.9), former smoker (OR = 13.3; 95% CI 4.1-41.4), and longer duration of diabetes (OR = 4.6; 95% CI 1.6-13.0) were the independent determinants of significant kidney disease among the participants. A significant dose--effect relationship exists between renal disease and smoking status (P < .0001), duration of DM (P < .001), glycemic status (P = .025), and body mass index (P = .003).There is a high rate of undiagnosed kidney disease in this setting, which was independently associated with female sex and presence of other cardiovascular risk factors. Strategic interventions targeting screening and monitoring of renal functions in individuals with DM are urgently needed in this region.

Assessment of renal impairment using estimated glomerular filtration rate among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in North-East Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the known cause of morbidity and mortality among diabetes mellitus (DM) patients. Targeted screening of renal impairment based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) among DM patients has potential benefits in early identification and treatment of CKD. Hence, this study was aimed to estimate the magnitude of renal impairment using eGFR among type 2 DM patients.

METHODS

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February-1 to April 30/2020 among 422 type 2 DM patients in Northeast Ethiopia. Data were collected by the semi-structured questioner and serum creatinine measurement. The collected data were edited into Epi-data manager version 4.4.1.0, and the analysis was performed by SPSS-25. The Simplified Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD), Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology (CKD-EPI), and Cockcroft-Gault (C-G) equations were used to calculate eGFR.

RESULTS

Of all study participants, 82(19.4%), 92(21.8%), and 103(24.4%) had eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m², according to the MDRD, CKD-EPI, and C-G equations, respectively. Female sex, (MDRD:AOR = 4.44, 95%CI:1.97-9.97, CKD-EPI:AOR = 3.17, 95%CI:1.27-6.17, and C-G:AOR = 2.65, 95%CI:1.35-5.21), duration ≥ 10 years (MDRD:AOR = 3.38, 95%CI:1.45-7.92, CKD-EPI:AOR = 3.09, 95%CI:1.07-7.77, and C-G:AOR = 2.92, 95%CI:1.29-6.61), age ˃60 years (MDRD:AOR = 2.29, 95%CI:1.09-4.77, CKD-EPI:AOR = 4.12, 95%CI:1.68-6.78, and C-G: AOR = 3.42, 95%CI:1.77-6.60), hypertension (MDRD:AOR = 3.12, 95%CI:1.51-6.45, CKD-EPI: AOR = 4.21,95%CI:2.07-7.98, and C-G:AOR = 3.99, 95%CI:2.08-7.65), poor glycemic control (MDRD:AOR = 2.82, 95%CI:1.13-7.05, and C-G:AOR = 2.34, 95%CI:1.09-5.04), and body mass index (MDRD:AOR = 1.11, 95%CI:1.01-1.22, and CKD-EPI:AOR = 2.43, 95%CI:1.27-5.76) were significantly associated with renal impairment.

CONCLUSION

Renal impairment was prevalent among type 2 DM patients. Older age, female sex, duration, hypertension, poor glycemic control, and BMI were significantly associated with renal impairment.

Incidence of diabetic nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus at a tertiary healthcare setting in Ethiopia

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients representing a huge health and economic burden. Despite the increasing number of patients with Diabetes Mellitus in Ethiopia, the incidence of diabetic nephropathy in patients with DM has not been well established. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the incidence and predictors of DN in patients with T2DM at tertiary healthcare setting, Ethiopia.

METHODS

An institution based retrospective follow study was conducted from March 1 to April 28, 2019. Kaplan-meier survival curve together with log rank test were used. Cox proportional hazard model was used at 5% level of significance to determine the net effect of each explanatory variable on diabetic nephropathy. An assumption was check by schoenfeld residual test.

RESULTS

The incidence rate of diabetic nephropathy was 3.6% per 100 person-years (95% CI = 2.49-11.47). The median time to develop nephropathy was 100(95% CI, 96.7-107) months. Predictors of diabetic nephropathy were males (AHR: 2.7, 95%CI: 1.39, 5.23), long duration of diabetes (AHR: 1.03, 95%CI: 1.01, 1.06), HbA1c> 7% (AHR: 1.74, 95% CI: 1.67, 3.12), high density lipoprotein (AHR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.83), and mixed anti-diabetic therapy (AHR: 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.59).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of diabetic nephropathy among T2DM patients was relatively high. Males, longer duration of diabetes, HbA1c, and fasting blood glucose were increase the risk of diabetic nephropathy.

Diabetic Microvascular Complications Among Children and Adolescents in Northwestern Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Africa is experiencing a rapid increase in morbidity and mortality related to diabetes mellitus (DM). Contemporary data are needed to guide efforts to improve prevention and treatment for microvascular complications in children and adolescents in Africa. This study was conducted to assess prevalence of diabetic microvascular complications in northwestern Tanzania, including nephropathy, retinopathy, and neuropathy, as well as associated risk factors.

Objectives

1) To determine the prevalence of microvascular complications and the overlap of nephropathy, retinopathy and neuropathy and 2) to determine factors associated with the development of microvascular complications.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 155 children and adolescents with DM consecutively attending all three health centers providing diabetes care for children in the Mwanza region of Tanzania. Participants were examined for microvascular complications and possible risk factors.

Results

Fifty-one of 155 participants (age: 5-19 years) had diabetic nephropathy (32.9%), 16 had diabetic retinopathy (10.3%), and 21 had diabetic neuropathy (13.6%). Risk factors for development of a microvascular complication included age, duration of DM, and poor glycemic control. Of the participants, 107 had poor levels of glycemic control (69%) with HbA1C levels >10%.

Conclusion

The prevalence of microvascular complications, especially that of nephropathy, was disturbingly high. Risk factors for microvascular complications were similar to other studies from Africa and included poor glycemic control, older age, and longer duration of DM. Innovative, locally appropriate systems for optimizing glycemic control are urgently needed.

The burden of unrecognised chronic kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes at a county hospital clinic in Kenya: implications to care and need for screening

BACKGROUND

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in patients with type 2 diabetes enhances the cardiovascular risk profiles and disease, and is a strong predictor of progression to end-stage kidney disease. Early diagnosis is encouraged for referral to specialist kidney care to initiate active management that would optimize outcomes including forestalling progression to end-stage kidney disease. This study was conducted in a regional referral public health facility in Central Kenya with a high prevalence of type 2 diabetes. It was aimed at finding out the burden of undiagnosed chronic kidney disease in their clinic of ambulatory patients with type 2 diabetes who dwell mainly in the rural area.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted at the out-patient of Nyeri County hospital. A total of 385 patients were enrolled over 5 months. Informed consent was obtained and clinical evaluation was done, a spot sample of urine obtained for albuminuria and venous blood drawn for HbA1c, Lipids and serum creatinine. Estimated GFR (eGFR) was calculated using the Cockroft-Gault equation. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was classified on KDIGO scale. Albuminuria was reported as either positive or negative. Descriptive statistics for data summary and regression analysis were employed on SPSS v23.

RESULTS

A total of 385 participants were included in the study, 252 (65.5%) were females. There were 39.0% (95%CI 34.3-44.2) patients in CKD/KDIGO stages 3, 4 and 5 and 32.7% (95%CI, 27.8-37.4) had Albuminuria. The risk factors that were significantly associated with chronic kidney disease/KDIGO stages 3, 4 and 5 were: age > 50 years, long duration with diabetes > 5 years and hypertension. Employment and paradoxically, obesity reduced the odds of having CKD, probably as markers of better socio-economic status.

CONCLUSION

Unrecognized CKD of KDIGO stages 3,4 and 5 occurred in over 30 % of the study patients. The risk factors of hypertension, age above 50, long duration of diabetes should help identify those at high risk of developing CKD, for screening and linkage to care. They are at high risk of progression to end-stage kidney disease and cardiovascular events. The imperative of screening for chronic kidney disease is availing care in publicly-funded hospitals.

Developing nephrology services in low income countries: a case of Tanzania

BACKGROUND

The burden of kidney diseases is reported to be higher in lower- and middle-income countries as compared to developed countries, and countries in sub-Saharan Africa are reported to be most affected. Health systems in most sub-Sahara African countries have limited capacity in the form of trained and skilled health care providers, diagnostic support, equipment and policies to provide nephrology services. Several initiatives have been implemented to support establishment of these services.

METHODS

This is a situation analysis to examine the nephrology services in Tanzania. It was conducted by interviewing key personnel in institutions providing nephrology services aiming at describing available services and international collaborators supporting nephrology services.

RESULTS

Tanzania is a low-income country in Sub-Saharan Africa with a population of more than 55 million that has seen remarkable improvement in the provision of nephrology services and these include increase in the number of nephrologists to 14 in 2018 from one in 2006, increase in number of dialysis units from one unit (0.03 unit per million) before 2007 to 28 units (0.5 units per million) in 2018 and improved diagnostic services with introduction of nephropathology services. Government of Tanzania has been providing kidney transplantation services by funding referral of donor and recipients abroad and has now introduced local transplantation services in two hospitals. There have been strong international collaborators who have supported nephrology services and establishment of nephrology training in Tanzania.

CONCLUSION

Tanzania has seen remarkable achievement in provision of nephrology services and provides an interesting model to be used in supporting nephrology services in low income countries.

Screening for chronic kidney disease in rural Malawi: results from a diabetic clinic

Objective

Patients with diabetes are at high risk of developing renal insufficiency and chronic kidney disease (CKD). As a result, screening for CKD is essential in diabetic patients as part of their care. This study investigated the prevalence of renal insufficiency, CKD, and correlates of CKD in diabetic patients attending Integrated Chronic Care Clinics in Neno District, Malawi.

Results

Of 203 diabetic patients, 148 (73%) were screened for CKD by measurement of serum creatinine and urinary protein between April 2016 and January 2019. 39.2% (n = 58) of the patients had abnormal estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), as estimated by CKD Epidemiology Collaboration formula and/or ≥ 2+ urine protein. 13.5% (95% CI 8.4–20.0%, 20/148) of the patients had renal insufficiency based on eGFR of less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m². 8.8% (95% CI 4.8–14.6%, 13/148) had CKD based on eGFR of less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m² measured twice at least 3 months apart. In bivariate analysis, CKD was associated with older age, high systolic blood pressure and lower fasting blood sugar. Despite the low sample size, the study showed a moderately high prevalence of renal insufficiency and CKD in a rural cohort of diabetic patients in Malawi.

Prevalence of impaired renal function among rural and urban populations: findings of a cross-sectional study in Malawi

Background: Sub-Saharan Africa faces region-specific risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD), such as nephrotoxic herbal medicines, antiretroviral therapy and infections, in addition to hypertension and diabetes. However, large epidemiological studies from this area are scarce. Methods: In a cross-sectional survey of non-communicable diseases, we conducted a prevalence sub-study of CKD in two Malawian populations. Study participants (N=5264) of 18 years of age and above were recruited and data on demographics and CKD risk factors were collected. Glomerular filtration rate was estimated (eGFR) using the CKD-EPI equation. Results: The prevalence of eGFR<60ml/min/1.73m 2 was 1.4% (95% CI 1.1 - 1.7%) and eGFR<90ml/min/1.73m 2 was 20.6% (95% CI 19.5 - 21.7%). The rural area had higher age-standardized prevalence of both eGFR<60ml/min/1.73m 2, at 1.8% (95% CI 1.4 - 2.3) and eGFR <90 ml/min/1.73m², at 21.1% (95% CI 19.9 - 22.3), than urban location, which had a prevalence of 1.5%, (95% CI 1.0 - 2.2) and 19.4% (95% CI 18.0 - 20.8), respectively, with overlapping confidence intervals. The prevalence of CKD was lower in females than in males in both rural and urban areas. Older age (p < 0.001), a higher level of education (p = 0.03) and hypertension (p < 0.001) were associated with a higher adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of low eGFR. Diabetes was associated with a reduced aOR of eGFR<90ml/min/1.73m 2 of 0.69 (95% CI 0.49-0.96; p=0.03). Of participants with eGFR<60ml/min/1.73m 2, 14 (19.4%) had no history of hypertension, diabetes or HIV, while 36 (50%) had a single risk factor of being hypertensive. Conclusion s: Impaired renal function is prevalent, but lower than expected, in rural and urban Malawi. Further research is needed to increase understanding of CKD incidence, survival and validation of eGFR calculations in this population.

Non-medical facilitators and barriers towards accessing haemodialysis services: an exploration of ethical challenges

BACKGROUND

Like most of the sub-Saharan countries, Tanzania faces significant increase in the number of patients diagnosed with an end-stage renal disease (ESRD) among which only a few manage to receive chronic haemodialysis services (CHD). Yet little is known about the non-medical facilitators and barriers towards accessing these services and the associated ethical challenges.

METHODS

A phenomenological study design which employed a qualitative approach was used. The study was conducted at the dialysis unit harboured within Muhimbili National Hospital. Data were collected from purposively sampled health care providers and ESRD patients by using in-depth interviews. Text data obtained were analysed based on inductive and deductive content analysis methods to formulate major themes.

RESULTS

Fourteen key informants were interviewed including nephrologists, renal nurses, social workers, nutritionists and ESRD patients. Three major themes were formulated: a) non-medical facilitators towards accessing CHD services which enshrines two sub-themes (membership to health insurance scheme and family support), (b) non-medical barriers towards accessing CHD services which enshrines four sub-themes (affordability of treatment costs, geographical accessibility, availability of CHD resources and acceptability of treatment procedures) and lastly (c) ethical challenges associated with accessing CHD services which also enshrines three sub-themes (dual role of health care providers, patients autonomy in decision making, and treatment disparity).

CONCLUSION

Non-medical facilitators to access CHD benefits few patients whereas non-medical barriers leave many ESRD patients untreated or partially treated. On the other hand, ethical challenges like treatment inequality are quickly gaining momentum. There is a need for guideline highlighting importance, position, and limitation of non-medical factors in the delivery of CHD services in Tanzania and other developing countries.

Prevalence of chronic kidney disease using estimated glomerular filtration rate among diabetes patients attending a tertiary clinic in Botswana

OBJECTIVES

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common contributors of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The epidemiology of CKD, a concern among patients with DM, has not been studied in Botswana. Consequently, the objective of this study was to estimate its prevalence among these patients in Botswana to provide future guidance to both government personnel and physicians.

METHODS

Observational cross-sectional study in a leading clinic in Botswana. Demographic and clinical data were obtained from patients through interviews and from their notes using a standard questionnaire. The study was conducted from July to October 2015. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the Modification of Diet for Renal Disease equation. CKD was defined as an eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m². Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the associations between CKD and potential factors.

RESULTS

The mean age and duration of DM among study participants were 54.67 years (range 21-92 years) and 5.0 years, respectively. Over half, i.e. 213/370 (57.6%) and 232/370 (62.7%), had an average blood pressure greater than 140/90 mmHg and poor glycemic control (HbA1c > 7%), respectively. 31/370 patients (8.4%) had CKD. However, only 18/370 (4.9%) had a diagnosis of CKD documented in their charts. Age, level of education, and duration of diabetes were independently associated with CKD.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of CKD by estimated eGFR was low compared to most previous studies. However, half of patients with CKD are not documented resulting in the potential for prescription errors and drug toxicity. A substantial number of our patients had uncontrolled hypertension and poor glycemic control. Older age, low level of education and longer duration of DM were associated with CKD. There is a need to carry out prospective studies to determine the association and role of glycemic and blood pressure control in CKD causation among patients with DM in Botswana.

Diabetic nephropathy and hypertension in diabetes patients of sub-Saharan countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis was undertaken to estimate the prevalence of diabetic nephropathy and its association with hypertension in diabetics of sub-Saharan African countries.

RESULTS

A total of 27 studies were included for the meta-analysis. The pooled overall prevalence of diabetic nephropathy was 35.3 (95% CI 27.46-43.14). In sub-group analyses by types of diabetes and regions, for instance, the prevalence was 41.4% (95% CI 32.2-50.58%) in type-2 diabetes mellitus and 29.7% (95% CI 14.3-45.1%) in Eastern Africa. Pooled point estimates from included studies revealed an increased risk of diabetic nephropathy with hypertension compared to without hypertension (OR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.31, 2.14). Diabetic nephropathy is a common complication in diabetic patients. Diabetic nephropathy complication is significantly higher in hypertensive patients. A preventive strategy should be adopted or planned to reduce diabetes mellitus and its complication of neuropathy, particularly in hypertensive.

Prevalence of CKD, Diabetes, and Hypertension in Rural Tanzania

INTRODUCTION

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, and hypertension play a disproportionate role in the growing public health challenge posed by noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in East Africa. The impact of these NCDs may pose the greatest challenge in rural areas with limited screening and treatment facilities, although precise prevalence estimates of these conditions in rural Tanzania are lacking.

METHODS

The prevalence of CKD, diabetes, and hypertension, were estimated from a probability sample of adults (n = 739) residing in 2 communities within Kisarawe, a rural district of Tanzania. Following consent, participants were studied in their homes. Random point-of-care (POC) measures of glycosylated hemoglobin and blood pressure, were obtained. Serum creatinine, drawn at the POC and measured at Muhimbili National University, was used to calculate estimated glomerular filtration rate with the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation.

RESULTS

The median age was 35 years (interquartile range 25-45 years). Overall the pooled prevalence for CKD stages III, IV, and V was 12.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 10.2-14.8). Surprisingly, the prevalence of CKD stage V (3.0%; 95% CI = 2.1-4.4) was high among the youngest age group (18-36 years). The prevalence estimates for prehypertension and hypertension were 38.0% (95% CI = 34.6-41.5) and 19.9% (95% CI = 17.1-22.9), respectively. The prevalence estimates for prediabetes and diabetes were 25.7% (95% CI = 22.6-29.1) and 14.8% (95% CI = 12.4-17.6), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Although this pilot study had a relatively small sample size, the prevalence estimates for CKD, diabetes, and hypertension were higher than we expected based on previous estimates from Tanzania. CKD was not significantly associated with diabetes or hypertension, suggesting the possibility of an alternative causality.

Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated With Chronic Kidney Disease Among Patients Presenting at a Haemodialysis Unit in Dodoma, Tanzania

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health problem worldwide, due to its epidemic proportions and the associated cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, data on the burden of CKD among patients attending hospitals in Tanzania are still limited. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with CKD among patients presenting at the University of Dodoma (UDOM) haemodialysis unit in Tanzania.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we reviewed data of 1,395 patients who presented at the UDOM haemodialysis unit from January 2013 to June 2015. Data were descriptively and inferentially analysed using Stata version 11.0.

RESULTS

From January 2013 to June 2015, a total of 1,395 patients presented at the UDOM haemodialysis unit with history of kidney disease. Of these patients, 1244 (89.2%) enrolled into this study, 651 (52.3%) of them were female. Almost two-thirds (n=792, 63.7%) of the patients were found to have CKD, 59.1% with an estimated glomerular filtration rate of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Among those who had CKD, 347 (43.8%) had hypertension, 241 (30.4%) had diabetic mellitus, 79 (10.0%) had chronic glomerulonephritis, 70 (8.8%) had hypertension and diabetes mellitus, 38 (4.8%) had HIV/AIDS, and 17 (2.1%) had hepatitis B. The median serum creatinine level was 222 lmol/L (interquartile range [IQR] 126 to 317), urea level was 14.5 mmol/L (IQR 5 to 24), hemoglobin was 11.0 g/dL (IQR 6.2 to 15.7), and body mass index was 27.1 kg/m2 (IQR 17.3 to 36.8). Obesity, diabetes mellitus, and systolic hypertension were associated with developing CKD (P<.001). A total of 116 patients received haemodialysis during the study period.

CONCLUSION

CKD was common among patients presenting in our hospital and is associated with high cardiovascular risk. To that end, patients should be thoroughly evaluated to identify and correct causes of their kidney disease, and efforts should be put in place for early detection and screening as well as advocacy on risk factors for CKD development in Tanzania.

Prevalence of kidney dysfunction in diabetes mellitus and associated risk factors among productive age Indonesian

Background

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is increasing in Indonesia due to population growth, urbanization, and lifestyle. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease that escalates mortality rate, but not all DM develop into chronic kidney disease.

Aims

To estimate the prevalence of kidney dysfunction (KD) in DM and the associated dominant risk factors among productive age Indonesian based on the National Health Survey (Riskesdas) 2013.

Methods

The statistical data consisted of 15,791 females and 10,349 males, aged 20 to 54, who lived in rural and urban areas. The data was obtained from National Institute of Health Research and Development (NIHRD), Ministry of Health. Data were collected from 33 provinces using cross sectional method. The variables data analyzed were sociodemographic, lifestyle, anthropometric, blood pressure, blood lipid, blood glucose, and creatinine. Kidney dysfunction was defined according to Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation. Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze the dominant associated risk factors.

Results

The prevalence of KD in DM was 4% (CI 95% 3.1-5.1) and only 0.6% had been diagnosed. Many associated risk factors could affect DM leading to KD such as age, sex, rural, economic status, sugary food/drinks, salty food, coffee, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, low HDL, high LDL, and hypertriglyceridemia. The dominant associated risk factors were age, sex, economic status, sugary food/drinks, and low HDL.

Conclusion

The prevalence of KD in DM among productive age Indonesian was 4% and only 0.6% had been diagnosed. Early detection of identification of KD in DM is needed in order to slow progression and complications. The dominant associated risk factors of KD in DM were age, sex, economic status, sugary food/drinks, and low HDL. Controlling of risk factors in DM should be done in order to prevent diabetic kidney disease.

The Global Epidemiology of Diabetes and Kidney Disease

The prevalence of diabetes is increasing worldwide, with the greatest increases occurring in low- and middle-income countries. In most developed countries, type 2 diabetes is presently the leading cause of end-stage renal disease and also contributes substantially to cardiovascular disease. In countries with weaker economies type 2 diabetes is rapidly replacing communicable diseases as a leading cause of kidney disease and is increasingly competing for scarce health care resources. Here, we present a narrative review of the prevalence and incidence of diabetes-related kidney disease worldwide. Mortality among those with diabetes and kidney disease will also be explored. Given the high morbidity and mortality associated with chronic kidney disease, we will also examine the level of awareness of this disease among people who have it.

Prevalence and burden of chronic kidney disease among the general population and high-risk groups in Africa: a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

While increasing attention is paid to the rising prevalence of chronic diseases in Africa, there is little focus on chronic kidney disease (CKD). This systematic review assesses CKD burden among the general population and high-risk groups on the entire African continent.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

We searched Medline and PubMed databases for articles published between 1 January 1995 and 7 April 2017 by sensitive search strategies focusing on CKD surveys at the community level and high-risk groups. In total, 7918 references were evaluated, of which 7766 articles were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. Thus, 152 studies were included in the final analysis.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENT

The prevalence of CKD in each study group was expressed as a range and pooled prevalence rate of CKD was calculated as a point estimate and 95% CI. No meta-analysis was done. Data were presented for different populations.

RESULTS

In the community-level studies, based on available medium-quality and high-quality studies, the prevalence of CKD ranged from 2% to 41% (pooled prevalence: 10.1%; 95% CI 9.8% to 10.5%). The prevalence of CKD in the high-risk groups ranged from 1% to 46% (pooled prevalence: 5.6%; 95% CI 5.4% to 5.8%) in patients with HIV (based on available medium-quality and high-quality studies), 11%-90% (pooled prevalence: 24.7%; 95% CI 23.6% to 25.7%) in patients with diabetes (based on all available studies which are of low quality except four of medium quality) and 13%-51% (pooled prevalence: 34.5%; 95 % CI 34.04% to 36%) in patients with hypertension (based on all available studies which are of low quality except two of medium quality).

CONCLUSION

In Africa, CKD is a public health problem, mainly attributed to high-risk conditions as hypertension and diabetes. The poor data quality restricts the validity of the findings and draws the attention to the importance of designing future robust studies.

Microvascular complications and their associated risk factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIMS

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of microvascular complications and to identify the various risk factors related to these complications in subjects with diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was cross-sectional and conducted in Outdoor of BIRDEM, from July 2014 to December 2014. Subjects were considered at age 30 to 60 years and duration of diabetes was 2-10 years. Investigations included socio-demographic, anthropometry and blood pressure. Blood samples were collected for HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose (FBG), 2-h after breakfast (2-hBG), total cholesterol (chol), triglyceride (TG), LDL, HDL, Hb% and serum creatinine. All the complications were taken from the medical record books which was diagnosed by physician.

RESULTS

A total of 400 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients were investigated in this study. The mean and SD of age was 50.05±7.54. The male and female subjects were 41.5% and 58.5% respectively. The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy was 12.3%, 21.3% and 16.8% respectively. Logistic regression model estimated that increasing age (age>50y; OR=3.04; p=<0.001), female participants (OR=1.35; p=<0.04), rural patients (OR=3.75; p=<0.001), housewife (OR=1.89; p=<0.01) and retired patients (2.50; p=<0.03), lack of physical exercise, increasing HbA1c (p=<0.001), FBG (p=<0.001), 2-hBG (<0.001) and blood pressure (p=0.000) had independent significant risk factors for any of three microvascular complications.

CONCLUSION

This study observed that about all the microvascular complications were developed from first three years after registration at BIRDEM. Increasing age, HbA1c, FBG, 2-hBG and blood pressure had significant risk factors for any type of microvascular complications.

APOL1 risk alleles among individuals with CKD in Northern Tanzania: A pilot study

INTRODUCTION

In sub-Saharan Africa, approximately 100 million people have CKD, yet genetic risk factors are not well-understood. Despite the potential importance of understanding APOL1 risk allele status among individuals with CKD, little genetic research has been conducted. Therefore, we conducted a pilot study evaluating the feasibility of and willingness to participate in genetic research on kidney disease, and we estimated APOL1 risk allele frequencies among individuals with CKD.

METHODS

In 2014, we conducted a community-based field study evaluating CKD epidemiology in northern Tanzania. We assessed for CKD using urine albumin and serum creatinine to estimate GFR. We invited participants with CKD to enroll in an additional genetic study. We obtained dried-blood spots on filter cards, from which we extracted DNA using sterile punch biopsies. We genotyped for two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) defining the APOL1 G1 risk allele and an insertion/deletion polymorphism defining the G2 risk allele. Genotyping was performed in duplicate.

RESULTS

We enrolled 481 participant, 57 (12%) of whom had CKD. Among these, enrollment for genotyping was high (n = 48; 84%). We extracted a median of 19.4 ng of DNA from each dried-blood spot sample, and we genotyped the two APOL1 G1 SNPs and the APOL1 G2 polymorphism. Genotyping quality was high, with all duplicated samples showing perfect concordance. The frequency of APOL1 risk variants ranged from 7.0% to 11.0%, which was similar to previously-reported frequencies from the general population of northern Tanzania (p>0.2).

DISCUSSION

In individuals with CKD from northern Tanzania, we demonstrated feasibility of genotyping APOL1 risk alleles. We successfully genotyped three risk variants from DNA extracted from filter cards, and we demonstrated a high enrollment for participation. In this population, more extensive genetic studies of kidney disease may be well-received and will be feasible.

Challenges and outcomes of haemodialysis among patients presenting with kidney diseases in Dodoma, Tanzania

Background

Kidney Diseases contribute a significant proportion to the global burden of non-communicable diseases. Haemodialysis services as the main modality of renal replacement therapy in most resource limited countries is only available in few cities and at higher costs. The aim of this study was to determine the challenges and outcomes of patients who were on haemodialysis at the University of Dodoma (UDOM) haemodialysis unit in Tanzania.

Methods

In this retrospective study; we reviewed haemodialysis registers and charts of 116 patients dialyzed from January 2013 to June 2015 at The UDOM haemodialysis unit. Data were descriptively and inferentially analysed using Stata version 11 software.

Results

Of the 116 patients, 52 (44.9%) were male, and 38(32.8%) were married. Their median age was 45 years. Thirty-two (27.6%) had acute kidney injury, of them 26 (81.3%) patients had recovery of renal function after haemodialysis. Indications for hemodialysis were anuria (18), intoxications (14), electrolyte imbalance (9), uraemia (7) infections (6) and fluid overload (4). Eighty-four (72.4%) patients had End Stage Renal Diseases (ESRD), of which 37 (44.1%) absconded/lost to follow up, 15 (17.9%) died, 22 (26.2%) were referred to Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), 12 for possible kidney transplant abroad after haemodialysis, and 10 (11.9%) were still attending our unit for haemodialysis. Residing outside Dodoma was predictive for poor outcomes while on haemodialysis (OR 5.2, 95% CI 3.2–8.6, p < 0.001). In addition the odds ratio for poor outcomes was 7.3 times for a patient ESRD (OR7.34, 95% CI 3.26–18.17, p < 0.001). Patients who had no National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) coverage (OR 6.6, 95% CI 5.4–12.7, p < 0.001) also had higher odds of poor outcomes after starting haemodialysis.

Conclusion

Unavailability and high costs related to utilization of haemodialysis services among patients needing dialysis are the challenges for better outcomes. Therefore, haemodialysis and renal transplants services should be made easily available in regional referral hospitals at reasonable costs. In addition, members of the public should be educated on joining health insurance schemes and on making healthy life style choices for preventing chronic kidney disease and its progression.

Prevalence of and Factors Associated with Nephropathy in Diabetic Patients Attending an Outpatient Clinic in Harare, Zimbabwe

There is limited information on the burden of diabetic nephropathy in developing countries. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of and factors associated with nephropathy among diabetic patients attending an outpatient clinic in Harare, Zimbabwe. In an analytical cross-sectional study, diabetic patients were consecutively enrolled and a questionnaire administered, clinical assessment conducted, and blood samples collected for human immunodeficiency virus testing and measurement of lipids, creatinine, fructosamine, and glycosylated hemoglobin levels. Urine samples were collected for determination of albumin and creatinine levels, which were used to categorize albuminuria. A total of 344 diabetic patients were enrolled. Overall, just over a third (35.8%) of patients had moderately increased albuminuria and 9.0% had severely increased albuminuria giving an overall prevalence of nephropathy of 44.8%. Prevalence of moderately increased albuminuria was slightly higher (36.5% versus 33.3%) and severely increased albuminuria slightly lower (8.8% versus 9.5%) in type 2 than type 1 diabetes patients, but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.866). Higher fructosamine and retinopathy were associated with nephropathy in both univariate and multivariate analysis {higher fructosamine (odds ratio [OR] = 1.00, confidence interval [CI] = 1.00-1.01), and retinopathy (OR = 2.80, CI = 1.64-4.97)}. We report a higher prevalence of moderately increased albuminuria and a lower prevalence of severely increased albuminuria compared with findings reported a decade ago among type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus patients attending the same clinic. High fructosamine and retinopathy were independent predictors of nephropathy.

Prevalence of chronic kidney disease in diabetic adult out-patients in Tanzania

Despite the increasing number of patients with Diabetes Mellitus in sub-Saharan Africa, the magnitude of chronic kidney disease among diabetics has not been well established. A study done by Janmohamed et al. found chronic kidney disease in 83.7 % of diabetics which is relatively higher than the prevalence reported elsewhere. However this study was conducted in schistosoma endemic area along the shores of Lake Victoria. Schistosomiasis has been reported to cause a range of renal diseases. Interpretation of these findings should therefore take into account the possibility of schistosomiasis as a possible confounder.

Impact of Type 2 Diabetes on Impaired Kidney Function in Sub-Saharan African Populations

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is a leading risk factor for impaired kidney function, an indicator of chronic kidney disease. The aim of this study was to examine the association between type 2 diabetes (T2D) and impaired kidney function among adults in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

METHODS

Participants were enrolled from Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria. Impaired kidney function was based on an estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min/1.73 m(2). Using logistic regression models, we conducted case-control analyses to estimate the multivariate-adjusted association of T2D and kidney function.

RESULTS

We used data from 4815 participants for whom the mean (SD) age was 48 (15) years, 41% were male and 46% had T2D. Those with T2D were more likely to have impaired kidney function [13.4% (95% CI: 11.9-14.7)] compared to those without T2D [4.8% (95% CI: 4.0-5.6)], p-value <0.001. The multivariate odds ratio of impaired kidney function among those with type 2 diabetes was 1.50 (95% CI: 1.17-1.91) p-value = 0.001, compared to those without T2D. Also, individuals with T2D who were at least 60 years old, obese, hypertensive or dyslipidemic were more likely to have impaired kidney function compared to those without T2D.

CONCLUSION

T2D was associated with 50% increased risk of impaired kidney function in this sample of adults from SSA. Interventions targeted at prevention, early diagnosis, and management of T2D are likely to reduce the burden of kidney disease in SSA.

Trends of diabetic nephropathy prevalence in Isfahan, Iran, during 1992-2010

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder and its subsequent complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy, ulcers, disability, and amputation increase the burden of the disease. Patient knowledge-improving programs are employed to prevent disease progression and to improve the quality of life of the patients. In this way, we need to characterize the groups of patients in urgent need for more and rich-in-content programs. In the present study, we used piecewise regression to evaluate the trends of diabetic nephropathy prevalence in patients registered in the Sedigheh-Tahereh Research Center and to identify patients who were in need of more attention.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Piecewise regression, used in this study, is a statistical method to identify change points, if any, in the trends of mortality rates, prevalence of a disease, or any other trends. Available information for 1,935 patients were retrieved from the database. Joinpoint program 3.5.3 and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 20 was used to fit piecewise regression and obtain descriptive statistics, respectively.

RESULTS

We assessed the trend of diabetic nephropathy in different groups of diabetic patients with respect to sex, blood pressure status, education, family history of diabetes, and age. The results showed an increasing trend in females, patients without family history of diabetes, and eover th recent years. The prevalence of diabetic nephropathy in patients with academic education was high.

CONCLUSION

The groups with high prevalence or increasing trends need more preventive intervention and detailed assessment of the present trends. Exploring high-risk groups is beneficial for better policy-making in the future. However, discovering the reasons for the increased trend of the disease is really helpful in controlling diabetes complications.

Cost of dialysis in Tanzania: evidence from the provider's perspective

BACKGROUND

Although End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) is a disease of increasing epidemiological relevance very little is known about the cost of providing the respective dialysis services in Tanzania. This paper estimates the costs of dialysis for ESRD patients at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) in Tanzania in the year 2014.

METHODS

Cost calculations are based on the provider perspective and include only the direct cost of dialysis treatment. Cost of drugs and consumables were obtained from the price list issued by the Medical Stores Department (MSD) in Tanzania. Additional data were collected through face-to-face interview with experts at the dialysis unit.

RESULTS

MNH performs on average 442 hemodialysis per month (34 patients, with three sessions per week) with a personnel placement of 20 nurses, four nephrologists, eight registrars, one nutritionist, two biomedical engineers, four health attendants and nine dialysis machines. The respective average unit cost per hemodialysis is 176 US$. Consequently, an average patient requiring three dialyses per week (i.e. 156 dialyses per year) will cause annual costs of 27,440 US$.

CONCLUSION

The cost of dialysis is enormous for a least developed country like Tanzania where resources and technology are rather limited. Thus, from the economic point of view, it seems rational to allocate health care budgets towards diseases that are curable, have a higher cost-effectiveness and cater for the majority of the population. However, before a final decision on allocation of budgets towards dialysis is made all effort must be invested to improve technical efficiency by cutting the enormous unit cost.

Prevalence of chronic kidney disease among the high risk population in South-Western Ghana; a cross sectional study

BACKGROUND

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a major global health problem. CKD is one of the most common complications of diabetes mellitus and hypertension and carries a risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and progression to end-stage kidney disease.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to use the 2012 Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) definitions to establish the prevalence and risk factors for CKD among a high risk population in the Sekondi-Takoradi metropolis.

DESIGN

Cross sectional study.

SETTING

Effia-Nkwanta regional and the Takoradi Government hospitals in South Western Ghana.

PATIENTS

Two hundred eight consecutive adults with diabetes, hypertension or both.

MEASUREMENTS

Serum creatinine and urine albumin-creatinine ratio respectively. The Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) was used to estimate glomerular filtration rate (GFR).

METHODS

CKD was classified according to KDIGO.

RESULTS

The prevalence of CKD was 30 %: 27 % in patients with diabetes, 22 % in patients with hypertension only and 74 % in patients with both diabetes and hypertension. GFR category G3a CKD was most prevalent stage (9 %). Albuminuria was highest among people with diabetes (39 %).

LIMITATIONS

A convenience sample of patients attending clinics.

CONCLUSION

CKD was prevalent in these high-risk patients.

The influence of HIV and schistosomiasis on renal function: a cross-sectional study among children at a hospital in Tanzania

Background

Schistosomiasis and HIV are both associated with kidney disease. Prevalence and factors associated with abnormal renal function among HIV-infected children in Africa compared to uninfected controls have not been well described in a schistosomiasis endemic area.

Methodology/Principal Findings

This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Sekou Toure Regional Hospital HIV clinic in Mwanza, Tanzania. A total of 122 HIV-infected children and 122 HIV-uninfected siblings were consecutively enrolled. Fresh urine was obtained for measurement of albuminuria and Schistosoma circulating cathodic antigen. Blood was collected for measurement of serum creatinine. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the modified Schwartz equation. Renal dysfunction was defined operationally as eGFR<60mL/min/1.73m2 and/or albuminuria>20mg/L in a single sample. Among 122 HIV-infected children, 61/122 (50.0%) met our criteria for renal dysfunction: 54/122 (44.3%) had albuminuria>20mg/L and 9/122 (7.4%) had eGFR<60. Among 122 HIV-uninfected children, 51/122 (41.8%) met our criteria for renal dysfunction: 48/122 (39.3%) had albuminuria>20mg/L and 6/122 (4.9%) had eGFR<60. Schistosomiasis was the only factor significantly associated with renal dysfunction by multivariable logistic regression (OR = 2.51, 95% CI 1.46–4.31, p = 0.001).

Conclusions/Significance

A high prevalence of renal dysfunction exists among both HIV-infected Tanzanian children and their HIV-uninfected siblings. Schistosomiasis was strongly associated with renal dysfunction.

Ninety percent of schistosomiasis occurs in sub-Saharan Africa, where 91% of HIV-infected children reside. Both schistosomiasis and HIV affect the kidney, but their respective effects on kidney disease in children are not well described. Our prior work in HIV-infected adults demonstrated a high prevalence of kidney disease, possibly worsened by schistosomiasis, but adults are less commonly and less heavily infected with schistosomiasis than children. Therefore, we sought to describe the prevalence and factors associated with renal dysfunction (defined operationally as eGFR <60mL/min/1.73m² and/or albuminuria >20mg/L in a single urine test) among HIV-infected children and their uninfected siblings living in a schistosomiasis endemic area. We found that half of HIV-infected children and more than one third of HIV-uninfected children had renal dysfunction. Schistosomiasis was the only factor significantly associated with renal dysfunction, increasing odds of renal dysfunction by 2.5-fold. Nearly 50% of the renal dysfunction we observed in both groups could be explained by schistosomiasis. The strong association between schistosomiasis and renal dysfunction among both HIV-infected and uninfected children should remind clinicians to screen for schistosomiasis. It also ought to spur further prospective research to assess for causality and outcomes in the relationship between S. mansoni and kidney disease in children.

Chronic kidney disease and underdiagnosis of renal insufficiency among diabetic patients attending a hospital in Southern Ethiopia

Background

Diabetic patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), as defined by a reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR), are at greater risk for cardiovascular and renal events and mortality. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of CKD among diabetic patients attending a hospital in southern Ethiopia, and to assess underdiagnosis of renal insufficiency among those with normal serum creatinine.

Methods

A total of 214 randomly selected diabetics attending the follow-up clinic at Butajira hospital of southern Ethiopia participated in this study during the period from September 1 to October 31, 2013. All patients completed an interviewer-administered questionnaire and underwent clinical assessment. The simplified Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) and Cockroft-Gault (C-G) equations were used to estimate GFR (eGFR) from serum creatinine.

Results

CKD, defined as eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m², was present in 18.2% and 23.8% of the study participants according to the MDRD and Cockcroft-Gault (C-G) equations, respectively. Only 9.8% of the total participants, and 48.7% (for the MDRD) and 37.3% (for C-G) of those with eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m² had abnormal serum creatinine values, i.e. > 1.5 mg/dl. Normal serum creatinine was observed in 90.2% of participants attending the hospital. A large proportion of participants ranging from 38.9-56.5% have shown to have mild to moderate renal insufficiency (stage 2–3 CKD) despite normal creatinine levels. CKD, eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m², was found in 10.4 and 16.9% of participants with normal serum creatinine using the MDRD and C-G equations, respectively.

Conclusion

CKD is present in no less than 18% of diabetics attending the hospital, but it is usually undiagnosed. A significant number of diabetics have renal insufficiency corresponding to stages 2–3 CKD despite normal creatinine levels. Therefore, GFR should be considered as an estimate of renal insufficiency, regardless of serum creatinine levels being in normal range.

Hypertension, kidney disease, HIV and antiretroviral therapy among Tanzanian adults: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

The epidemics of HIV and hypertension are converging in sub-Saharan Africa. Due to antiretroviral therapy (ART), more HIV-infected adults are living longer and gaining weight, putting them at greater risk for hypertension and kidney disease. The relationship between hypertension, kidney disease and long-term ART among African adults, though, remains poorly defined. Therefore, we determined the prevalences of hypertension and kidney disease in HIV-infected adults (ART-naive and on ART >2 years) compared to HIV-negative adults. We hypothesized that there would be a higher hypertension prevalence among HIV-infected adults on ART, even after adjusting for age and adiposity.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study conducted between October 2012 and April 2013, consecutive adults (>18 years old) attending an HIV clinic in Tanzania were enrolled in three groups: 1) HIV-negative controls, 2) HIV-infected, ART-naive, and 3) HIV-infected on ART for >2 years. The main study outcomes were hypertension and kidney disease (both defined by international guidelines). We compared hypertension prevalence between each HIV group versus the control group by Fisher's exact test. Logistic regression was used to determine if differences in hypertension prevalence were fully explained by confounding.

RESULTS

Among HIV-negative adults, 25/153 (16.3%) had hypertension (similar to recent community survey data). HIV-infected adults on ART had a higher prevalence of hypertension (43/150 (28.7%), P = 0.01) and a higher odds of hypertension even after adjustment (odds ratio (OR) = 2.19 (1.18 to 4.05), P = 0.01 in the best model). HIV-infected, ART-naive adults had a lower prevalence of hypertension (8/151 (5.3%), P = 0.003) and a lower odds of hypertension after adjustment (OR= 0.35 (0.15 to 0.84), P = 0.02 in the best model). Awareness of hypertension was ≤ 25% among hypertensive adults in all three groups. Kidney disease was common in all three groups (25.6% to 41.3%) and strongly associated with hypertension (P <0.001 for trend); among hypertensive participants, 50/76 (65.8%) had microalbuminuria and 20/76 (26.3%) had an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 versus 33/184 (17.9%) and 16/184 (8.7%) participants with normal blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV-infected adults on ART >2 years had two-fold greater odds of hypertension than HIV-negative controls. HIV-infected adults with hypertension were rarely aware of their diagnosis but often have evidence of kidney disease. Intensive hypertension screening and education are needed in HIV-clinics in sub-Saharan Africa. Further studies should determine if chronic, dysregulated inflammation may accelerate hypertension in this population.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards prevention and early detection of chronic kidney disease

OBJECTIVE

To describe the knowledge, attitudes and practices of Jordanian patients with chronic illnesses towards prevention and early detection of chronic kidney disease.

BACKGROUND

Patients with chronic illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes need to adopt healthy attitudes and practices and gain knowledge regarding prevention and early detection of kidney disease to decrease the prevalence of dialysis-related complications and costs.

METHODS

A total of 740 patients were recruited from out-patients clinics in Jordan. Knowledge, attitudes and practices about kidney disease prevention and early detection were measured using the Chronic Kidney Disease Screening Index which was developed by the researcher and tested for validity and reliability.

RESULTS

The results revealed that most of the participants have knowledge about kidney disease; however, half of them had wrong information related to signs and symptoms of chronic kidney disease. The majority of the participants were not aware about the importance of discovering health problems at early stages.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Improvement in population understanding about chronic kidney disease is needed to advance their awareness and practices to make appropriate decisions towards health promotion and better quality of life.

IMPLICATION FOR POLICY DEVELOPMENT

Nurses need to be involved in development of protocols for screening and intervention programmes, taking into consideration the cultural issues and the financial status of individuals at risk for kidney disease. Governments should adopt a public health policy for chronic kidney disease that supports programmes for screening and programmes for improving public awareness for kidney disease prevention.