Counseling of kidney stone patients based on their dietary pattern in the selected areas of district kangra HP

Abstract

The present study was planned and executed with the specific objectives to counsel the kidney stone patients based on their dietary pattern in the selected areas of district Kangra (Himachal Pradesh). Out of total 130 selected kidney stone patients, majority were males varying in their time of stone diagnosis, symptoms of the disease, recurrence and inheritance of stones and anthropometrical measurements. Majority of patients were non-vegetarian with normal body weight. Their intake of macro nutrient and water was lower than RDA while intake of minerals (sodium, calcium and phosphorus) and oxalates was higher than RDA which may be a contributory factor of stone formation. The assessment of knowledge regarding general nutrition awareness, knowledge regarding kidney stones and knowledge regarding nutrition and kidney stone was done and nutrition education was also provided to patients. There was positive correlation between literacy level and general nutrition awareness and literacy level and nutrition and kidney stones. Correlation study between literacy level and gain in knowledge regarding kidney stones after nutrition education was also positive. Overall comparison of mean gain and quantum of improvement in knowledge of three categories revealed that there was more gain and improvement of knowledge regarding nutrition and kidney stones and more than half of respondents had gain in knowledge categorized as high. The study revealed that if patients are counseled and guided properly in the selection of appropriate foods, much of recurrence and complications of kidneys can be prevented thereby improving the general health. Proper nutrition can support healthy kidney function and may discourage stone formation. newline