Abstract:
Background: Cognitive impairment is a significant yet underrecognized complication among
patients undergoing hemodialysis. Studies indicate that up to 30% of hemodialysis patients
develop dementia, with many experiencing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) as a precursor.
The progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring
hemodialysis is associated with worsening cognitive function, potentially due to factors such
as uremic toxin accumulation, haemodynamic instability, and inflammation.
Aimed to assess the presence and extent of cognitive impairment in patients with CKD
undergoing haemodialysis and to identify contributing factors.
Material & Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted at BLDE (DU), Shri B.M. Patil
Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Vijayapura, over 18 months (May 2023 –
December 2024). A total of 64 patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis were assessed
for cognitive impairment using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Data were
analyzed using SPSS Version 20, with independent t-tests and Chi-square tests applied for
statistical significance (p<0.05).
Results: The mean age of participants was 52.67±14.2 years, with 62.5% males and 37.5%
females. Hypertension (50%) and diabetes (31.3%) were common comorbidities. Cognitive
impairment was present in 40.6% of patients. Patients with cognitive impairment had
significantly longer CKD duration (2.5 years vs. 1.6 years) and haemodialysis duration (8.6
months vs. 3.5 months) (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Cognitive impairment is prevalent in hemodialysis patients and is associated with
longer CKD and dialysis durations. Early screening and intervention strategies are essential to
mitigate cognitive decline and improve patient outcomes.
