Assessment of Renal Function Among Diabetic Patients Attending Gweru Provincial Hospital from 2023 to 2024.

Abstract

This study investigated the renal function of diabetic patients attending Gweru Provincial Hospital in Zimbabwe from 2023 to 2024. The research aimed to assess renal function within this population, identify socio-demographic characteristics associated with abnormal renal results, analyze renal function tests, and determine the prevalence of abnormal renal function tests. A retrospective cross-sectional study design was employed, utilizing data from the hospital's laboratory records. The study population consisted of 200 adult patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The inclusion criteria had patients from 18 years and above who had been diagnosed with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus, excluding those with pre-existing kidney disease or other conditions affecting kidney function. Key findings revealed a high prevalence of abnormal renal function among the participants. The mean age of the participants was 46.4 years, with a notable predominance of males (68%). The duration of diabetes varied among the patients, with 40% having been diagnosed between 5 to 10 years. Most participants demonstrated good glycemic control; however, gender differences were observed, with a higher proportion of females showing effective blood glucose control. Analysis of serum creatinine levels indicated that a significant percentage of both males(33.8%) and females(23.4%) exhibited abnormal levels, suggesting impaired renal function. Furthermore, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) results corroborated these findings, revealing a substantial proportion of participants with abnormal renal function. Overall, the prevalence of renal dysfunction in the study population was approximately 40.25%.These results underscore the importance of routine renal function monitoring and early intervention strategies for diabetic patients. The study's findings highlight the need for improved screening practices, enhanced public health initiatives focused on diabetes management, and the development of sex-specific management strategies to address the specific needs of different patient groups.