Prevalence and Management Practice of Diabetic Kidney Disease at BADAS Affiliated Healthcare Centres in Bangladesh - An Exploratory Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Diabetes mellitus represents a significant public health challenge globally, and Bangladesh is no exception to this growing epidemic. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), about 13.1 million people in Bangladesh have diabetes, and this number is expected to increase to 22.3 million by 2045(Sun et al., 2022). One of the most serious complications of diabetes is Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD), which can lead to chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). DKD not only imposes a heavy burden on the healthcare system but also affects the economic and social well-being of the patients and their families. The prevalence of kidney disease among the diabetic population of Bangladesh is estimated to be around 21.3%. This number is based on a single center study conducted at the Bangladesh Institute of Health Sciences (BIHS) hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh(Islam et al., 2021). This high prevalence highlights the need for a comprehensive evaluation of DKD within the centers affiliated with the Bangladesh diabetic association (BADAS), which is the largest non-governmental organization providing diabetes care and research in the country.

The Bangladesh Diabetic Association (BADAS), with its extensive network of diabetes care centers and healthcare professionals, has long been at the forefront of addressing diabetes-related health concerns in the country. As a nation-wide institution dedicated to diabetes care, BADAS plays a pivotal role in delivering healthcare services and shaping the well-being of diabetic patients in Bangladesh.

A comprehensive understanding of DKD prevalence and management status within BADAS centers is essential to enhance the quality of care for diabetic patients. Identifying areas for improvement is the first step towards effecting positive change.

Our ultimate plan is to implement a nationwide DKD prevention program through affiliated diabetic centers. To achieve this, a comprehensive assessment of the current situation is an imperative foundation for program design, planning, and execution.

The study will provide a rich dataset upon which evidence-based recommendations for preventing and managing DKD within BADAS-affiliated centers can be developed. These recommendations are essential for improving patient outcomes and ensuring the success of the future prevention program.