Depression and quality of life in patients on long term hemodialysis at a nationalhospital in Ghana: a cross-sectional study.

The study examined quality of life and prevalence of depressive symptoms in patients on long term hemodialysis. Further, it explored the impact of socio-demographic characteristics on depression and quality of life. DESIGN: Study design was cross-sectional. SETTING: Study was conducted in the two renal dialysis units of the Korle-Bu Teaching hospital in Accra, Ghana. PARTICIPANTS AND STUDY TOOLS: One hundred and six participants on haemodialysis were recruited for the study. The Patient Health Questionnaire and the World Health Organization Quality of Life instrument were used to assess depression and quality of life. RESULTS: Forty five percent of participants screened positive for symptoms of depression. Approximately 19% obtained low scores on overall quality of life. There were significant negative correlations between the following: Depression and overall QoL, Depression and duration of dialysis treatment and Depression and income level. There was positive correlation between overall QoL and duration of dialysis, treatment and income. CONCLUSION: Depressive symptoms were common amongst patients on long term hemodialysis. Haemodialysis patients who obtained low scores on quality of life measures were more likely to screen positive for depressive symptoms. Screening for depressive symptoms among these patients is critical as early treatment may improve their general wellbeing. FUNDING: Not indicayed.

Kidney transplantation in Ghana: Is the public ready?

BACKGROUND: The burden of end stage renal disease (ESRD) is reported to be higher among people of African ancestry. The majority do not have access to kidney transplantation. Africans, in general, are less likely to donate a kidney or receive a transplant. AIMS: This study surveyed public perceptions of kidney transplantation in an inner city and suburban communities in Ghana. It examined people's willingness to either accept or donate a kidney to save a life. In addition, it evaluated factors that influenced their opinion on the issue. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in five purposively selected communities in the Greater Accra region in Ghana. Structured questionnaires and standardized instruments were administered to assess participants' socio-demographic characteristics, religiosity and spirituality, and perception of kidney transplantation. RESULTS: Of the 480 participants, 233 (48.5%) were willing to donate a kidney; 71.6% would only do so after death. Religion, loss of body part, and cultural values influenced participants' willingness to donate a kidney. Uncertainty of health status post-transplantation and uneasiness with the concept of transplantation influenced the participants' willingness to accept a kidney transplant. CONCLUSION: The study revealed that almost half of the participants hold positive views toward kidney transplantation.