THE IMPACT OF HEMODIALYSIS ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF END-STAGE RENAL DISEASE PATIENTS: A STUDY OF DURATION, GENDER, AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) often progresses to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), a condition requiring renal replacement therapy such as hemodialysis (HD). The advent of HD has significantly increased the life expectancy of patients with ESRD, extending survival by an average of 10–12 years. However, the prospect of lifelong dialysis treatment remains a source of physical, psychological, and social distress for many patients. The treatment involves considerable lifestyle adjustments, including restricted mobility, strict dietary controls, limited fluid intake, dependence on medical technology, and a marked reduction in the quality of life (QoL).