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Analysis of clinical characteristics of dialysis patients at the University Hospital
Insights
This study analyzed hemodialysis patients in Puerto Rico, finding a younger population than expected with high rates of hypertension and coronary artery disease (CAD). Early detection of CAD and better blood pressure control are recommended for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cardiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and dialysis patient populations are increasing globally.
- Cardiovascular complications pose a significant mortality risk for dialysis patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the clinical and demographic profiles of maintenance hemodialysis patients at University Hospital in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Main Methods:
- A review of 55 active hemodialysis patients.
- Data collection included demographics, clinical characteristics, comorbidities (diabetes mellitus, hypertension, CAD), dialysis vintage, and socioeconomic factors.
Main Results:
- The study identified a relatively young hemodialysis population.
- Hypertension (63-78%) and Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) (36-50%) were prevalent comorbidities.
- Lower annual income was associated with both age groups, but education level was not.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest a younger hemodialysis demographic in Puerto Rico than anticipated.
- Hypertension and CAD are key risk factors requiring management in CKD patients.
- Recommendations include improved blood pressure control and early CAD detection prior to dialysis initiation.
Objectives:
The incidence and prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients treated with dialysis has continued to increase worldwide. These patients are at the highest risk of developing cardiovascular complications which contribute to their demise. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical and demographic characteristics of the patients on maintenance hemodialysis at the University Hospital, in San Juan Puerto Rico.
Methods:
We reviewed a total of 55 active patients. Data was collected to identify the demographic and clinical characteristics. Co-morbid conditions such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and coronary artery disease (CAD) were noted as well as age, dialysis vintage and social and educational profiles.
Results:
Patients were divided into two groups according to age (group 1 were less than 60 years and group 2 were more than 60 years). Average age was 42 years in group 1 with 17 females and 24 males and 78 years in group 2 with 6 females and 8 males. Diabetes mellitus was present in 17 (41%) of group 1 and 5 patients (35%) of group 2. Likewise hypertension was present in 26 (63%) of group 1 patients and 11(78%) of group 2 patients. CAD was present in 15 (36%) of group 1 patients and 7 (50%) of group 2 patients. There was an association between low annual income in both groups but not in the level of education.
Conclusion:
A relatively young population was identified in our descriptive analysis of hemodialysis patients at the University Hospital. The expected high incidence of diabetes mellitus observed in the general population of hemodialysis patients in our country was not present. Hypertension and CAD were major risk factors in these patients. In view of these findings we recommend better control of blood pressure, prevention and early detection of CAD in CKD patients before initiating dialysis.
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