Abstract

The study aims to explore the factors influencing patients’ understanding and perceptions of their treatment methods. This research is grounded on theoretical frameworks such as the Health Belief Model (HBM), the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), and the Self-Determination Theory (SDT) to better comprehend how these adherence contribute to patient engagement and adherence to treatment protocols.

This study was carried out at the Buea General Hospital’s Hemodialysis Unit. The study employed a cross-sectional design which targets individuals who have been undergoing hemodialysis for at least six months, with a sample size of 83 participants. It employs a combination of random and purposive sampling techniques to ensure a representative sample is achieved. Data collection is facilitated through structured questionnaires.

The study utilizes comprehensive statistical methods, including inferential statistical analyses through SPSS version 21. The inclusion criteria focus on participants aged 12 years and above who can provide informed consent, ensuring substantive data reflective of long-term treatment experiences. Conversely, individuals facing cognitive impairments or language barriers without available assistance are excluded to maintain data integrity.

The results reveal that a considerable majority of patients are well-aware of the significance of adhering to treatment regimens, with 72.3% expressing a strong understanding of its crucial role in managing CKD effectively. However, logistical barriers such as personal schedules and transportation impact adherence, with only roughly half consistently following their prescribed schedules. Additionally, there exists a notable gap in comprehensive knowledge, especially concerning CKD risk factors and treatment options, as only 25.3% feel informed about available treatments while a significant portion remain either uninformed or uncertain about these critical aspects despite exhibiting high levels of trust in healthcare providers and acknowledging the essential role of regular treatment adjustments.

It was concluded that patients at the Buea Hemodialysis Unit showed good knowledge and a positive attitude towards CKD treatment, but face logistical barriers to compliance. There are notable knowledge gaps in understanding CKD stages and treatment options despite awareness of dietary changes. While patients are generally positive about treatment adjustments, concerns about side effects suggest a need for better communication with healthcare providers.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a pressing global health concern due to its rising prevalence and the challenging dynamics of treatment adherence among patients. Chronic kidney disease is a progressive condition characterised by a gradual loss of kidney function, which necessitates rigorous management and adherence to prescribed treatment regimens. Compliance with these treatment protocols is crucial for slowing disease progression, managing symptoms, and improving patients’ quality of life.

Various adherence can influence compliance, including socio-demographic factors such as age, gender, educational level, and socioeconomic status. Environmental factors such as the availability of healthcare facilities and support systems also play a crucial role. Additionally, psychological factors, including patients’ knowledge about CKD, their attitudes towards treatment, and their perceived severity of the illness, significantly impact adherence levels. The cultural context and healthcare infrastructure in Buea may present unique challenges that affect patient compliance differently compared to other regions. Previous studies have highlighted a need to enhance patient education and provide adequate support to improve treatment adherence among CKD patients [1,2].

The prevalence of CKD is increasing worldwide, largely driven by rising incidences of diabetes and hypertension, two major risk factors. The World Health Organization estimates that 850 million people worldwide suffer from kidney diseases, making CKD a significant public health issue [3]. For patients diagnosed with CKD in regions like Buea, Cameroon, the availability and accessibility of treatment options such as hemodialysis are often limited.

This scarcity necessitates an understanding of patients’ knowledge regarding their condition and its management. Educating patients about CKD and its treatment options empowers them to make informed decisions about their care and can lead to better adherence to treatment protocols. By focusing on this objective, the study aims to bridge gaps between healthcare providers and patients in resource-constrained settings, ultimately improving the quality of care for individuals with CKD [4].

Within the broad spectrum of CKD management, understanding patients’ attitudes towards treatment adjustments plays a crucial role in developing effective health strategies. This aspect stems from the interplay of personal beliefs, cultural influences, and the varied clinical implications of CKD therapy adjustments [5]. Literature indicates that adherence to treatment regimens is significantly influenced by patients’ perceptions of their illness, and their interaction with healthcare providers can affect compliance rates [6]. As CKD often requires complex and lifelong modifications in lifestyle and therapy, patient-centered care models that focus on educating patients about the necessity of treatment adjustments could enhance adherence levels [7].

This study aims to uncover insights into how patients view these necessary changes, which can serve as a foundation for personalized care approaches that accommodate individual preferences while optimizing therapeutic outcomes. Understanding these attitudes not only contributes to better disease management but also empowers patients to actively participate in their healthcare journey [8].

1.2 Problem Statement

Despite advances in medical treatments, there is limited understanding of how various factors such as socio-economic status, educational background, cultural beliefs, and accessibility to healthcare resources affect patients’ comprehension and perception of their disease management. Existing literature has predominantly focused on CKD treatment dynamics in more developed areas, often overlooking challenges unique to regions like Buea.

This neglect leaves a significant void in our understanding of how these socio-cultural and economic adherence influence patient education and engagement with their treatment processes in developing parts. Studies have demonstrated that socio-economic status often dictates not only the accessibility to healthcare resources but also the quality of information received by patients [9]. This discrepancy is especially marked in developing regions where the healthcare infrastructure may already be inadequate or inconsistently distributed [10].

The implications of these research gaps are profound, impacting both individual patient outcomes and broader healthcare services. A deficit in patient knowledge and a negative attitude toward CKD treatment can lead to poor compliance with therapy regimens, resulting in exacerbated disease progression and increased morbidity.

Furthermore, inadequate knowledge fosters an environment where misconceptions flourish, potentially leading to non-adherence to dietary restrictions or dialysis schedules, significantly hindering treatment efficacy [11]. On a systemic level, understanding these adherence could drive strategic improvements within local healthcare frameworks by informing targeted educational interventions that enhance patient engagement, improve treatment outcomes, reduce hospitalization rates, and optimize resource utilization within the Buea Hemodialysis Unit [12]. Addressing these gaps is thus crucial for enhancing both patient well-being and healthcare system effectiveness.

Moreover, there is a growing need for comprehensive studies that integrate the complex interplay between patients’ educational backgrounds and their health literacy concerning chronic diseases such as CKD. The cultural context in Buea may pose additional barriers due to traditional beliefs that could conflict with conventional medical advice [13].

Understanding these nuances is essential for crafting effective communication strategies that resonate with patients’ lived experiences while remaining medically informative. By dissecting these adherence through targeted research, stakeholders can develop more appropriate educational materials and outreach programs tailored to local needs [14]. Ultimately, this research aims not only to inform but also to empower patients towards better health outcomes through sustainable engagement with their treatment regimes.

1.3 Research Questions

Generally, the question this study seeks to answer is: what are the factors influencing patient adherence, knowledge and attitudes towards the treatment of chronic kidney disease at the Buea Hemodialysis Unit?

1.3.1 Specific Research Questions

1. What are the factors influencing patients’ adherence to chronic kidney disease treatment protocols at the Buea Hemodialysis Unit?
2. What is the level of knowledge among patients about chronic kidney disease and its available treatment options at the Buea Hemodialysis Unit?
3. What are patients’ attitudes towards necessary treatment adjustments for managing chronic kidney disease at the Buea Hemodialysis Unit?

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