Journal of Advances in Medicine and Medical Research

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major cause of renal complications globally, including diabetic nephropathy (DN), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). In Kenya, data on the prevalence and risk factors of renal complications among diabetic patients remain limited.

Aim: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated clinical and sociodemographic factors of renal complications among diabetic patients attending Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).

Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at JOOTRH from March to September 2024. Medical records of 150 diabetic patients were randomly sampled, of which 117 met the inclusion criteria. Data on demographics, clinical history, and renal function were extracted. Descriptive statistics estimated prevalence, while Chi-square tests assessed associations between independent factors and renal complications. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: The prevalence of renal complications was 48.7%. CKD (26.5%) and DN (15.4%) were the most common complications, while ESRD (2.6%) and acute kidney injury (4.3%) were less frequent. Hypertension (55.6%) and poor glycemic control (HbA1c > 8%) were significantly associated with renal complications (p < 0.05). Longer duration of diabetes (>10 years), older age (≥60 years), and low socioeconomic status were additional predictors of renal complications.

Conclusions: Renal complications are common among diabetic patients at JOOTRH. Hypertension, poor glycemic control, longer diabetes duration, advanced age, and socioeconomic deprivation were key determinants. Routine renal screening, tight glycemic and blood pressure control, and targeted education for high-risk groups are recommended. Addressing these sociodemographic disparities is critical for the prevention and management of diabetic nephropathy.