Knowledge of Kidney Disease Among Allied Health Sciences Undergraduates: A Cross-Sectional Study in the University of Cape Coast

Abstract

Introduction: Knowledge of kidney disease (KD) is an essential element that is needed in the scope of every healthcare professional. This study assessed the level of awareness and understanding of allied health sciences undergraduates of University of Cape Coast regarding KDs and their risk factors.

Methodology: Among the regular allied health sciences undergraduates of the University of Cape Coast, a cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2022 to June 2022. A well-structured questionnaire on knowledge of KDs and their risk factors was administered to consented participants. Data were analyzed accordingly using R Studio statistical software version 2022.02.3.

Results: The study involved 383 participants (the majority being males (52.7%)) with an average age of 22.23 ± 3.03 years. Age (p < 0.001), year of study (p < 0.001), program of study (p < 0.001), frequency of 30 min of exercise per week (p = 0.002), and body mass index (p = 0.023) showed statistically significant differences between males and females. The mean knowledge score of KD was 20.86 ± 3.88 (out of a maximum score of 27) with the majority of study participants having a high knowledge of KD (61.9% (237/383)). High knowledge level was observed for types and stages, diagnosis, and risk factors for KD (76.8% (3.84/5), 75.3% (5.27/7), and 81.6% (8.98/11), respectively) while moderate knowledge level was observed for signs and symptoms (69.3% (2.77/4)). Multivariate analysis showed that participants were found to be more knowledgeable about KDs if they indicated taking alcohol (OR = 5.96; 95% CI = 2.01–22.35; p = 0.003), being in second (OR = 3.27; 95% CI = 1.22–9.02; p = 0.020) or fourth (OR = 4.72; 95% CI = 1.63–14.37; p = 0.005) year of study, or classified themselves as being underweight (OR = 3.93; 95% CI = 1.22–15.85; p = 0.033). Students reporting alcohol use had almost six times higher odds of high KD awareness compared to those who did not report alcohol intake (OR = 5.96, 95% C = 2.01–22.35, p = 0.003).

Conclusion: This study revealed an adequate knowledge level of KDs and their risk factors among allied health sciences undergraduates. However, an inadequate knowledge of its signs and symptoms was observed indicating a need for improved training.