Public Unawareness of Renal Function: A Questionnaire Survey at a Health Promotion Seminar

TL;DR

This study finds that many people are unaware of their kidney health, highlighting the need for better education on renal function.

Contribution

The study identifies specific demographic and health-related factors linked to unawareness of renal function in the general population.

Findings

Female sex is associated with a lower awareness of renal function.

Lack of recent blood tests and health consultations correlates with unawareness of kidney health.

Low awareness of blood pressure and glucose levels is linked to poor renal function knowledge.

Abstract

Background: Progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) increases the risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease; however, knowledge regarding renal function in the general population is low. We aimed to determine factors necessitating CKD education in the general population. Methods: Participants for a health promotion seminar were recruited via the Sugiura Memorial Foundation website and Sugi Pharmacy stores. Those who agreed to participate in the seminar were included in the questionnaire survey after a health seminar. Results: Out of 1548 participants, 1050 answered all questionnaire items, resulting in a valid response rate of 67.83%. Multivariable analysis revealed that sex (OR = 0.611), pharmacy consultations (OR = 0.661), receiving a blood test within 1 year (OR = 0.268), awareness of blood pressure (OR = 0.038), and knowledge of blood glucose level (OR = 0.099) were factors for unawareness of renal function. Conclusions: This study suggests that female individuals unaware of their blood pressure or glucose levels, those who have not had a blood test within 1 year, and those who have not sought health consultations need education on renal function.