Cross-sectional study for assessment of knowledge, attitudes and practices of chronic kidney disease patients toward potassium-rich diet intake in Jazan-Saudi Arabia

Hyperkalemia is prevalent among chronic kidney disease patients, and their knowledge and perceptions regarding a potassium-rich diet vary widely. In this study, we aim to evaluate the level of knowledge regarding potassium-rich diet Intake among chronic kidney disease patients in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, and to identify potassium-rich diet intake-related practices among them. We conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study using the convenient sampling method on CKD patients. The questionnaire was composed of 20 questions distributed over 3 domains. The data had been analyzed using SPSS software version 23. Frequency and percentages were used to display categorical variables. Mean and standard deviation was used to present numerical variables. The independent t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) test were both used to test for factors associated with knowledge and perception score. A total of 404 were involved in the study. Most were aged between 41 and 60 years 38.6%. The majority were male 57.2% and of Saudi nationality 76.7%. Regarding marital status, 64.6% were married and 4% were divorced. Regarding employment, 67.3% were unemployed, and 5% were students. As regards education, 60.9% had less than a high school education and 0.9% had a master's degree/PhD or equivalent. The knowledge levels about potassium-containing diets show that 79.8% had low knowledge, 20% had moderate knowledge, and only 0.2% had a high knowledge level. Participants' behaviors toward a potassium-rich diet show that 52.7% have considered lowering dietary potassium is essential, while 32.7% were unsure of its necessity. Only 16.1% indicated that salt quantity on nutritional labels influenced their shopping choices. A total of 53% of participants avoided or reduced consumption of potassium-rich foods. Additionally, 36.4% opted for low-potassium alternatives and 26% read potassium content on labels. Behavioral scores ranged from 0 to 5, with a mean of 1.84 ± 1.62. Lastly, A moderate positive correlation was found between knowledge and behavior scores. This study identifies significant gaps in knowledge and behavior regarding high-potassium meals among CKD patients in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. The results underscore the necessity for better patient education, customized treatment plans, and a multidisciplinary approach to nutrition management to enhance dietary adherence and clinical outcomes.