Impact of Gastrointestinal Symptoms on Quality of Life in Individuals With Chronic Kidney Disease in Cameroon: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction Gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS) are commonly reported in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and can significantly impact quality of life (QoL). Despite this, data from sub-Saharan Africa remain scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of GIS on QoL in CKD patients in Cameroon. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was carried out between December 2021 and May 2022 at the Yaounde General Hospital and Yaounde University Teaching Hospital. Participants included adults (≥18 years) with CKD stages III-V or on hemodialysis. GIS were assessed using a Modified Rome IV Diagnostic Questionnaire, and QoL was measured with the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI). Associations and correlations between GIS, QoL, and clinical characteristics were analyzed using Spearman's correlation and multiple regression, with significance set at p<0.05. Results Among 202 participants (median age 58 years, 63.4% male), 82.2% reported at least one GIS. The most common symptoms were anorexia (41.1%), constipation (39.6%), nausea (36.6%), bloating (33.7%), and vomiting (32.2%). QoL showed a weak negative correlation with serum creatinine (rho=-0.36; p<0.001) and a weak positive correlation with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (rho=0.40; p<0.001). GIS and hypertension were significantly associated with lower QoL scores. Specifically, the presence of GIS (aOR=0.17; CI: 0.06-0.40; p<0.001) and hypertension (aOR=0.35; CI: 0.13-0.85; p=0.02) reduced the odds of better QoL. Conclusion GIS are prevalent among CKD patients in Cameroon and are linked to diminished QoL. Reduced renal function and hypertension further compound this effect. Routine QoL assessments and symptom-targeted interventions should be integrated into clinical care to enhance patient outcomes.