Quality of life and social reinsertion of patients on maintenance haemodialysis in four government funded hospitals in Cameroon.

Background: Reduced quality of life is associated with shorter survival in chronic illnesses. However, the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and social reinsertion of patients on maintenance haemodialysis is much more underappreciated in resource-limited countries such as Cameroon.

Method: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out from February 22nd to May 20th, 2022, in 4 government-funded haemodialysis centres in three randomly selected regions of Cameroon. Patients received twice-weekly dialysis sessions. Social reinsertion and HRQOL were assessed using a structured questionnaire and the kidney disease quality of life instrument (KDQOL-36™). HRQOL scores < 50 were categorized as low, while scores > 50 reflected better HRQOL. Data were analysed using the software statistical package for Social Sciences version 25.0. Statistical significance was set at a p value < 0.05.

Results: The study included 434 patients. The mean age was 48.33 (13.55) years, 65.7% (285/434) were male, 62.3% (269/434) had no monthly income, and the mean dialysis vintage was 3.74 (3.83) years. The mean HRQOL score was 44.34 (9.77), and 76.2% (325/434) had HRQOL scores < 50). Overall HRQOL was associated with older age (aOR: 2.344, CI 1.089-5.04). After the initiation of maintenance haemodialysis, 67.1% (49/73) of students dropped out of school. The main reason for school absenteeism and unemployment was physical insufficiency, with 82.4% (19/24) and 52.4% (75/144), respectively. There were no promotions or marriages after initiation; 51% (221/434) of relationships with relatives and friends were affected negatively, while 83.3% (66/79) of those of marriageable ages could not find suitors. The social participation score was poor in 61.5% (267/434) of participants. There was an association between low QOL and social participation (p = 0.009).

Conclusion: The HRQOL of patients on maintenance haemodialysis is greatly reduced, especially their physical health status. Older age was a determinant of low QOL. Additionally, social reinsertion remains poor due to adverse changes that occur to these patients and their families after dialysis initiation.

Clinical trial number: Not applicable.