Gratitude for Living Off a Machine: Lived Experiences of Patients Aged 18 to 40 Years with Chronic Kidney Disease on Hemodialysis Treatment: a Phenomenological Study.
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Date
2025-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Background : Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects about 12.1% of the global population where the prevalence is higher in Africa at 15.8% (2018). In Ethiopia, the prevalence of CKD was 12.2% where the prevalence among adults aged 35 and less was estimated to be around 41% in 2018. CKD progress to end stage renal disease (ESRD) where patients will be forced to undergo dialysis or kidney transplant. With the latter being difficult to access, most patients will be put on dialysis. Dialysis interferes with daily life, causing feelings of isolation, depression, frustration apart from its high cost. Despite these challenges, in Ethiopia, little is known about the lived experiences of patients who are living with CKD especially at their productive age.
Objectives: To explore the lived experiences of patients aged 18 to 40 years old, with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis treatment.
Methods: phenomenological qualitative research was employed to explore the lived experiences of dialysis patients. Data were generated using a semi structured in-depth interview guide among 17 purposively selected participants. The interview was then transcribed verbatim and translated to the English language and coded using open code software version 4.03 and data were analyzed thematically. Efforts were made to uphold the qualitative study's credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability.
Results: Six major themes and 12 sub-themes emerged from the data. This study showed that adults aged 18-40 years face unique burdens while undergoing dialysis including career disruption and social alienation, physical changes, emotional challenges such as depression and anxiety. In addition, the need for adaptive strategies centered on peer networks, self-discipline, and external support systems were eminent findings.
Conclusion: The findings revealed complex interplay of physical, emotional, economic, and social struggles, and coping mechanisms of patients. Following the findings, a shift from clinical management to a holistic approach addressing the physical, social, emotional and financial needs, need to be put in place.
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chronic kidney disease, hemodialysis, lived experiences, young adults, Ethiopia