A Quantitative Study on The Sociodemographic, Medical-Profile and Effect of Dialysis on the Quality of Life of Patients-The Case of Northern Region in Ghana

Abstract

Background: End stage renal disease patients almost always end up requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT). The knowledge on sociodemographic characteristics and medical profile of patients with ESRD and the effects of dialysis on their quality of life is of immense importance to the effective planning and care of these patients. However, there is paucity of literature on this topic. Methods: A cross sectional survey was employed in this study. Objective: The study was meant to uncover knowledge on the sociodemographic characteristics, medical profile and the effects of dialysis on the quality of patients undergoing dialysis. Results: At a mean age of 42.9 years, (35.3%, n = 18) of participants were within 41 and 50 years (Mean = 42.9 years, SD 14.5, Min. 13 years, Max. 77 years). Majority (72.6%, n = 37) of the participants were males, meaning more males were on dialysis than females even though literature suggest that more females are diagnosed with renal conditions. Out of the total number, (29.4%, n = 15) of the participants had attained tertiary education while about 25.5% (n = 14) had no formal education and more than half of the participants earned below Ghc500 equivalent to 34 US dollars monthly. The ability to carry out activities of daily living are severely affected. Conclusion: Kidney failure has become a very common disease among the general public, causing devastating effects, hence there is the need to research into it for effective actions against it.