Assessment of Nutritional Status and Related Factors Among Patients Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis at Hargeisa Group Hospital, Somaliland

Background : Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition characterized by the gradual loss of kidney function over time with a reduction in the glomerular filtration rate. More than 800 million people are affected by chronic kidney diseases worldwide. Its prevalence is notably pronounced among older populations and those with inadequately managed diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Nutritional status among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in East African countries, including Somaliland, has emerged as a significant concern requiring comprehensive attention. Several studies conducted across this region have indicated varying degrees of malnutrition among CKD patients. Objective: This study aimed to assess nutritional status and related factors among patients with chronic kidney disease on haemodialysis at Hargeisa Group Hospital, Hargeisa, to generate evidence for practice. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of four weeks from 30 June to 27 July 20222 at Hargeisa Group Hospital, Department of Haemodialysis. Results : A multivariate linear regression model adjusted for different background characteristics, duration of chronic kidney disease, scheduled physical activity before becoming sick, history of anorexia and hemoglobin level was significantly associated with nutritional status (P < 0.05). For a unit increase in the duration of chronic kidney disease, the SGA-DMS score increased by 0.061 (ß = 0.061, P < 0.001). Similarly, a unit increase in the duration of anorexia (SGA-DMS) score increased by 4.746 (ß = 4.746, P < 0.001), indicating malnutrition. Conversely, having any scheduled physical activity before becoming sick decreased the SGA-DMS score by -4.604 (ß = -4.604, P =0.042). Conversely, a unit increase in the haemoglobin level decreased (SGA-DMS) the score by -1.463 (ß = -1.463, P =0.014). Conclusion : Malnutrition is notably prevalent among hemodialysis patients at Hargeisa Group Hospital, particularly among those subjected to extended dialysis and those with a history of anorexia.