Association of Clinical and Socio-demographic Factors With Chronic Kidney Disease Among Adults in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania: A Retrospective Study

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a major public health challenge worldwide due to its increasing prevalence and association with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In Tanzania, data on the burden and risk factors of CKD among hospital-attending patients remain limited. This study aimed to identify the clinical and demographic risk factors associated with CKD among adult patients in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted by reviewing patient records from January 2019 to December 2021. A total of 200 adult patient files were analysed, including 100 with CKD and 100 without CKD. Data were extracted using a structured checklist and analysed to determine associations between CKD and potential risk factors. Results: Among the 200 patients, 121 (60.5%) were male and 79 (39.5%) were female, with a majority (49%) aged 41–60 years. CKD was more prevalent in males (65%) than females (35%), with males having a higher risk compared to females (RR=2.05; 95% CI: 1.82–2.35; p=0.004). Hypertension was present in 123 patients (61.5%) and was strongly associated with CKD (RR=21.49; 95% CI: 9.62–47.99; p<0.001). Diabetes was identified in 78 patients (39%) and showed a significant association with CKD (RR=6.83; 95% CI: 3.57–13.07; p<0.001). HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B, and hydronephrosis were significantly associated with CKD (HIV/AIDS RR=2.69; 95% CI: 0.46–4.08; p=0.017; hepatitis B RR=2.11; 95% CI: 1.82–2.45; p=0.001; hydronephrosis RR=2.04; 95% CI: 1.78–2.36; p=0.045). Socio-demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, including smoking, were not significantly associated with CKD (p>0.05). Conclusion: CKD in Tanzanian adults is strongly associated with cardiovascular risk factors, particularly hypertension and diabetes, and is more prevalent in males and middle-aged adults. Early detection, routine screening, and targeted health education addressing modifiable risk factors are essential to reduce the burden of CKD. Strengthening clinical evaluation and monitoring of high-risk patients is recommended to prevent progression and improve outcomes.