Knowledge and Perceived Susceptibility to Chronic Kidney Disease among Auto-Mechanics and Allied Professionals in Bodija Community of Ibadan North Local Government Area, Nigeria

In Nigeria, the prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is not known, but several studies, mostly hospital-based, suggest a range of 1.6 to 12.4%. Automobile materials, which contain heavy metals are being utilized by mechanics and people in allied professions daily without awareness of the health implications of the exposure. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the knowledge and perceived susceptibility to chronic kidney disease among auto-mechanics and allied professionals in the Bodija Community of Ibadan North Local Government Area, Nigeria.

This study was a descriptive cross-sectional. Pretested semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was administered to 209 respondents. Knowledge of chronic kidney diseases, perceived susceptibility towards chronic kidney diseases, and preventive practices were measured on 32-, 14-, and 24-point scales respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Fisher’s exact test at a 5% level of significance.

Few (32.1%) respondents age ranged from 40 to 49 years old with a mean age of 38±9.5 years, 50.7% were Christians and 96.7% were Yoruba. Knowledge score was 12.9±6.4, and 71.3% had a poor knowledge. Most (82.3%) of the respondents stated that herbal supplements could be effective in treating CKD, and 34.4% mentioned high blood pressure as a cause of CKD. The perceived susceptibility score was 5.2±3.1 and 73.2% had negative perceived susceptibility to CKD. Most (89.0%) agreed that consumption of local herbs cannot predispose them to CKD. Practice score was 6.8±2.6 and 98.1% had a poor practice.

Most of the respondents had poor knowledge of chronic kidney disease, negative perceived susceptibility, and poor preventive practices toward chronic kidney disease. A concerted effort should be made to improve the knowledge of chronic kidney disease and its preventive practices. This could lead to a change in attitude and behavior, thereby reducing the risk factors of chronic kidney disease.