Comparison of sleep quality in patients undergoing hemodialysis and renal transplant recipients

Low sleep quality is a prevalent health issue among patients undergoing kidney replacement therapy. Our objective was to assess and compare sleep quality between patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) and kidney transplant recipients. Methods. This observational, cross-sectional study recorded socio-demographic data and medical histories. The study comprised two groups: patients undergoing HD for at least one year and kidney transplant recipients with a successful renal transplant over six months. Each participant completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Results. The study encompassed 56 HD patients and 35 age and gender-matched renal transplant recipients. The mean age of the entire study population was 47.97±12.92 years (ranging from 23 to 77), with 49 (53.8%) being males. PSQI scores were ≥5 in 57 patients, including 21 transplant recipients and 36 undergoing HD patients. PSQI results exhibited no significant difference between the transplant and HD groups. The mean sleep quality score was 5.69±2.95 in the transplant group and 5.72±3.29 in the HD group, with no statistically significant difference. Conclusions. PSQI scores were similar in patients undergoing HD and transplant recipients with well-preserved renal functions. Identifying low sleep quality is essential for enhancing the overall quality of life.