Abstract:
Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition marked by the gradual
loss of kidney function and is a major global public health concern. Diabetes Mellitus is one of the
leading causes, as prolonged hyperglycaemia can damage renal blood vessels, impair filtration and
lead to kidney dysfunction. In Sri Lanka, the rising prevalence of CKD among diabetic patients is
largely due to limited awareness and inadequate self-care practices.
Objectives: To assess the knowledge and self-care practices related to the prevention of CKD
among patients with Diabetes Mellitus attending diabetic clinics at selected base hospitals in the
Colombo District, Sri Lanka
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 423 diabetic patients from
three base hospitals at Homagama, Mulleriyawa, and Awissawella. Participants were selected
using systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a validated, pre-tested interviewer-
administered questionnaire assessing knowledge and practices regarding CKD, including
awareness, treatment options, the importance of exercise, diabetic diet, daily water intake, and
clinic attendance. Data were analysed using SPSS version 27.0 with both descriptive and
inferential statistics.
Results: Knowledge and self-care practice scores were calculated separately and converted into
percentages. A cut-off score of 50% was used to determine adequacy, where scores above this
threshold indicated adequate knowledge or good self-care practices. While 78.6% of participants
demonstrated adequate knowledge of CKD prevention, only 47.2% exhibited good self-care
practices, highlighting a significant gap between knowledge and its practical application.
Conclusions: There is a critical need to implement interventions that enhance not only knowledge
but also the adoption of effective self-care behaviours among diabetic patients in the community.
Further studies are recommended to explore factors influencing self-care practices to support more
targeted and sustainable prevention strategies.
