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Knowledge and awareness factors affecting kidney function and chronic kidney disease among the general population in the West Bank, Palestine: an online cross-sectional study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses a growing burden in Palestine's West Bank; however, public awareness remains unassessed. This study evaluated the knowledge of kidney function, CKD risk factors, symptoms, prevention, and treatment among Palestinians and identified the predictors of awareness. METHODS: An online cross-sectional survey of 592 adults (≥18 years) was conducted in 11 West Bank cities (August-September 2024). A validated Arabic questionnaire was used to assess sociodemographic characteristics and CKD knowledge. Reliability was confirmed through pilot testing. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify predictors of high knowledge (≥70% score threshold). RESULTS: < 0.001). Key gaps included knowledge of kidney metabolic functions (31.250% vs. 17.708%), CKD stages (36.058% vs. 10.677%), and medication-based treatment (75.962% vs. 62.760%). Regression revealed higher odds of high knowledge among seminar attendees (aOR = 4.00, 95% CI: 2.82-5.67), adults >50 years (aOR = 5.56, 95% CI: 3.12-9.91), and females (aOR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.05-2.59). Social media (25.636%) and academic materials (28.390%) were the primary information sources. CONCLUSION: CKD knowledge gaps are prevalent in the West Bank, particularly regarding early symptoms and non-dialysis treatment. Educational seminars significantly improve awareness, but their reach remains limited. Future interventions should prioritize accessible community-based education, digital campaigns targeting youth, and screenings for high-risk groups. Further research should explore barriers among older populations and evaluate targeted awareness initiatives to address these issues.

Source: Annals of Medicine

DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2025.2583328