Factors Influencing the Glomerular Filtration Rate among People with Chronic Kidney Disease in Salt-reduction Communities, Uthai Thani Province

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) represents a critical public health challenge with an increasing prevalence in Thailand. Understanding factors that affecting kidney function is essential for preventing and decelerating disease progression. This cross-sectional analytical study aimed to examine factors influencing the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) among CKD patients in salt-reduction communities in Uthai Thani Province. A total of 385 participants were recruited using multi-stage random sampling. The research instrument comprised validated questionnaires with high content validity and reliability (CVI ≥ 0.95, Cronbach's Alpha 0.899–0.911). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis.

Results revealed that the majority of participants were female (55.84%) with a mean age of 63.62 years (SD = 11.06), and most were classified as CKD stage 3a. The mean score for health belief perception was at a moderate level (𝑥̅ = 2.61, SD = 0.73), while self-efficacy perception was also moderate (𝑥̅ = 2.88, SD = 0.60). Factors significantly influencing eGFR included age, salt consumption behavior, and 13 variables related to health belief and self-efficacy perceptions, explaining 66.0% and 61.7% of the variance, respectively.

            In conclusion, age, salt consumption behavior, health belief perception, and self-efficacy perception significantly affected kidney function. These findings provide valuable insights for designing community-based salt reduction programs that enhance self-efficacy and promote positive behavioral change among individuals with CKD to slow kidney function decline.