Abstract: TH-PO844
A Qualitative Study of Chinese American Knowledge and Perceptions about Kidneys and Kidney Diseases
Session Information
- Race, Ethnicity, and Gender in Kidney Health and Care
October 24, 2024 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Diversity and Equity in Kidney Health
- 900 Diversity and Equity in Kidney Health
Authors
- Richardson, Michelle M., Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development and Commercialization Inc, Princeton, New Jersey, United States
- Lebovitz, Abigail, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Meyer, Klemens B., Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Vesel, Tamara, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
Background
Asian Americans have a higher risk of early chronic kidney disease (CKD) compared to other racial groups in the United States (US) and were the only group without a decrease in end-stage renal disease prevalence from 2019-2021 [USRDS 2023 Annual Report, United States Renal Data System]. Timely identification and treatment of CKD is crucial to prevent or delay disease progression. Evaluating kidney health and disease knowledge can shape culturally sensitive education to reduce disease prevalence.
Methods
Our community partner conducted semi-structured, 1:1 interviews of elders without kidney disease from 12/2023-2/ 2024. Iterative multi-stage thematic analyses identified key concepts and themes.
Results
Of nine participants, 89% were female, all were born in China, lived in the US an average of 19 years, and over half had at least a high school education. Eight interviews were in Cantonese and one in Taishanese. Half of participants knew someone with kidney disease. Baseline knowledge was high and included: knowing the importance of kidneys for overall health and survival; the role of kidneys in hormone regulation, fluid balance, and detoxification; the relationship between kidneys and the urinary system; and recognizing “silent” disease progression. Additional themes arose at the intersection and divergence of traditional Chinese medicine and western medicine concepts of CKD including: relationship of kidney disease with sexual health, the term “kidney deficiency”, and the consideration of mood and mindset when understanding disease. Lastly, concern over lack of individual and population knowledge surrounding kidney health and CKD was prevalent and many were curious and enthusiastic to learn more about the kidneys and identifying CKD.
Conclusion
Overall, our participants’ knowledge of the kidneys was advanced. There are important cultural considerations within Eastern and Western medicine that clinicians should be aware of when providing CKD education and care. Chinese American individuals have distinctive perspectives and understanding of kidney health and disease that should be acknowledged to provide high quality, culturally respectful disease education and health care.
Funding
- Other NIH Support