Patient-Related Factors that Influence Adherence to Post-Kidney Transplant Treatment Among Kidney Allograft Recipients at a National Referral Hospital, Kenya

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to describe patient-related factors that influence adherence to post kidney transplant treatment among kidney allograft recipients at a national referral hospital in Kenya. Adherence to long term immunosuppressive medications determine the success of kidney transplantation. However, non-adherence is a global health concern among this special population. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional hospital-based study, census sampling method was used with a sample size of 106 kidney allograft recipients. Findings: Almost half 49(46%) of the respondents were non adherent to medication. Majority 43(88%) pointed out that cost of the medicines was the main reason for non- adherence. Among those who adhered, 102(96%) indicated that they had adhered because the quality of their life had improved after kidney transplantation. Age was found to be a statistically significant factor in influencing outcome of adherence as indicated by body mass index (BMI) (x 2(15) = 30.09, p =.012, p<.005). Conclusion: There exists a gap in adherence to medication among the kidney allograft recipients. Cost of medication is an important factor in non-adherence. Recommendations: The health care providers should develop sustainable strategies to curb medication non-adherence. Government should consider National Hospital Insurance Fund cover to all post kidney transplant medicines. Non-governmental organizations should offer financial support to this special population by donating drugs.