Depression, anxiety, and low quality of sleep among Egyptian hemodialysis patients: a single-center study

Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) significantly impairs the quality of life (QoL) of patients, with hemodialysis (HD) being the predominant kidney replacement therapy (KRT) worldwide. HD patients frequently suffer from various complications, including psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, which profoundly affect their quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and low quality of sleep among Egyptian hemodialysis patients. Patients and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at Abu-Qir Specialty Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt, involving 61 HD patients. Data were collected through individual interviews using validated Arabic versions of the Patient Health Questionnaire depression scale (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) score, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were also obtained. Results The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances among HD patients was found to be 67.21%, 50.82%, and 100%, respectively. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that poor sleep quality ( P =0.01) and anxiety ( P <0.01) were significantly associated with depression. Anxiety was significantly associated with depression ( P <0.01) and hemoglobin level ( P =0.03). Poor sleep quality was predominantly influenced by depression ( P =0.02). Conclusion The study highlights the high prevalence of psychological disorders and sleep disturbances among HD patients in Egypt, emphasizing the need for integrated care models. Routine screening and comprehensive management of these conditions are essential to improve quality of life and clinical outcomes. Further research is needed to explore underlying mechanisms and develop effective interventions tailored to HD patients’ unique challenges.