Prevalence and Factors Associated with Herbal Medicine Use Among Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana.

Abstract

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a global public health challenge with significant prevalence in Ghana. Despite the increasing reliance on herbal medicine for managing chronic conditions, there is limited research on its use among CKD patients. This study investigates the prevalence, types, factors, and risks associated with herbal medicine use among CKD patients at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using records of 245 CKD patients from the Renal Unit of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Data on demographics, disease history, and herbal medicine use were extracted through structured data sheets. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were employed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with herbal medicine use. Ethical approval was obtained, and data confidentiality was ensured. Results: The mean age of participants was 48.30 ± 14.61 years, with a slight female majority (51.4%). Approximately 73.1% (95% CI: 67.0 – 78.5) of CKD patients reported using herbal medicine, with 32.4% being chronic users. Herbal medicines were primarily consumed in leaf form (72.6%), and the main reason for usage was health enhancement (61.2%). Key sources of information included relatives (49%) and media platforms (22.8%). Significant associations were observed between herbal medicine use and factors such as educational level (p=0.016), family history (p=0.001), friends' usage (p<0.001), and awareness of side effects (p<0.001). Patients with comorbidities were 1.99 times more likely to use herbal medicine (cOR=1.99, 95% CI: 0.97 – 4.11, p=0.006). Conclusion: Herbal medicine use is prevalent among CKD patients in Ghana, driven by socio demographic and cultural factors. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to integrate patient education on the potential risks and benefits of herbal medicine into CKD management to ensure patient safety and improve care outcomes.