Knowledge and Self-care Practices on Prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease among Diabetes Mellitus Patients Attending Diabetic Clinics of Selected Base Hospitals in Colombo District, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition marked by the gradual loss of kidney function and is a major global public health concern. Diabetes Mellitus is one of the leading causes, as prolonged hyperglycaemia can damage renal blood vessels, impair filtration and lead to kidney dysfunction. In Sri Lanka, the rising prevalence of CKD among diabetic patients is largely due to limited awareness and inadequate self-care practices. Objectives: To assess the knowledge and self-care practices related to the prevention of CKD among patients with Diabetes Mellitus attending diabetic clinics at selected base hospitals in the Colombo District, Sri Lanka Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 423 diabetic patients from three base hospitals at Homagama, Mulleriyawa, and Awissawella. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a validated, pre-tested interviewer- administered questionnaire assessing knowledge and practices regarding CKD, including awareness, treatment options, the importance of exercise, diabetic diet, daily water intake, and clinic attendance. Data were analysed using SPSS version 27.0 with both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Knowledge and self-care practice scores were calculated separately and converted into percentages. A cut-off score of 50% was used to determine adequacy, where scores above this threshold indicated adequate knowledge or good self-care practices. While 78.6% of participants demonstrated adequate knowledge of CKD prevention, only 47.2% exhibited good self-care practices, highlighting a significant gap between knowledge and its practical application. Conclusions: There is a critical need to implement interventions that enhance not only knowledge but also the adoption of effective self-care behaviours among diabetic patients in the community. Further studies are recommended to explore factors influencing self-care practices to support more targeted and sustainable prevention strategies.