Adolescents and parents' knowledge of chronic kidney disease: the potential of school-based education

BackgroundPreventing the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), reducing the incidence of new dialysis patients, and increasing public awareness about CKD are pivotal in mitigating renal impairment. This study aimed to assess the relevance of kidney disease and CKD knowledge among junior high school students and their parents.MethodsA questionnaire survey on kidney function and CKD was conducted among students aged 14-15 years and their parents (851 pairs). Parents were also asked about their age, sex, and participation in health checkups.ResultsThe study achieved a collection rate of 49.1%, with a valid response rate of 79.7%. Both junior high school students and their parents exhibited limited knowledge about kidney functions, primarily understanding these functions only in terms of waste product excretion and lacking awareness of other functions. A significant positive correlation was observed in awareness of kidney functions between students and their parents. Regarding CKD awareness, only 2.4% of students and 16.5% of parents were knowledgeable about CKD itself, while 18.9% of students and 45.3% of parents were aware of its name only. Importantly, CKD knowledge among both students and parents was associated, with those aware of CKD also demonstrating better understanding of kidney functions.ConclusionThis study highlights inadequate knowledge among junior high school students and their parents regarding renal function and CKD. A significant correlation was observed in CKD awareness between students and their parents. These findings underscore the need for targeted strategies to enhance public education and awareness about kidney health.