Generalised Anxiety Symptoms Among Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study in Northwestern Tanzania

Abstract

Background: Generalized anxiety disorder is prevalent among patients with chronic diseases such as chronic kidney
disease (CKD). It is often not identified but is associated with reduced quality of life in patients with End Stage Renal
Disease. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of generalized anxiety symptoms and to identify factors associated
with these symptoms among patients with CKD attending Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, Northwestern Tanzania.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 376 patients with CKD aged 18 years and above who
were recruited and interviewed using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale to screen for symptoms of
generalized anxiety disorder. Participants were systematically selected from both inpatient and outpatient units and
interviewed by trained research assistants.
Results: The mean age of the participants was 52.78 years (SD=14.23; range 18-85 years). 67.02% were males;
33.24% were more than 60 years of age and 32.45% of the participants were attending haemodialysis at BMC
Nephrology unit. The prevalence of generalized anxiety symptoms was 40.96% (n=154, 95% CI: 36.07% - 46.03%).
Increased odds of anxiety symptoms were associated with being 41-50 years (AOR 3.6, 95%CI: 1.60-2.19, P
value=.016); not started dialysis treatment (AOR 2.48, 95% CI: 1.42-4.31, P value=.001), not having health insurance
coverage (AOR 1.29, 95% CI: 1.16-1.53, P value<.001) and inability to perform their personal duties (e.g.., bathing,
walking, and dressing without assistance) (AOR 1.78, 95% CI: 1.05-3.03, P value=.033).
Conclusion: Generalised anxiety symptoms are highly prevalent among patients with CKD at Bugando Medical Center
in Mwanza, Northwestern Tanzania. To support their psychosocial health, our findings suggest that patients with CKD
should be screened early for anxiety disorders. Early detection and intervention may reduce the burden of morbidity and
mortality and improve patients’ quality of life