Knowledge, attitude and perception of kidney transplantation among people living with chronic kidney disease, their caregivers and the general population in Kumasi, Ghana: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Kidney transplantation is the most effective treatment for end-stage kidney disease (ESKD); however, it remains underutilized as a treatment modality in Ghana. As the incidence and prevalence of ESKD continue to rise, the development of kidney transplant services in Ghana has become imperative. Appraising the knowledge, attitude and perception of people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), their caregivers and the general population concerning kidney transplantation is essential for designing appropriate policies, legislation and infrastructure for kidney transplantation in Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted between February and August 2023 at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) nephrology clinic and in selected communities in the Kumasi Metropolis, using an interviewer-administered knowledge, attitude and perception (KAP) questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised sections on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of kidney transplantation, attitude towards kidney transplantation and perception of kidney transplantation. Each correct or positive response scored 1 and each incorrect or negative response scored 0; using a modified Bloom’s cut-off, a score of 60% or more in a section indicated adequate knowledge, positive attitude or good perception. Groups were compared using the chi-square test, and associated factors were examined using simple logistic regression in Stata version 17.0. Results The study included 424 respondents: 64 people living with CKD, 64 caregivers and 296 members of the general population. Overall, 86.6% of participants had adequate knowledge of kidney transplantation. Attitude and perception were poor: 48.4% of respondents had a positive attitude and 39.9% had good perception of kidney transplantation. Among people living with CKD, increasing age was associated with a poorer attitude towards kidney transplantation (crude odds ratio 0.93 per year, 95% CI 0.89–0.97). In the general population, a monthly income above GHS 500 was associated with a positive attitude and good perception. Conclusions People living with CKD, caregivers and the general population had adequate knowledge of, but poor attitude and perception towards kidney transplantation. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address the factors that influence attitude and perception. Trial registration Not applicable.