Living with Type 2 Diabetes and Kidney Failure: Lifestyle Strategies

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, can lead to severe complications, including kidney failure, if left unmanaged. This study explores the connection between type 2 diabetes and kidney failure, aiming to enhance patient care, prevention strategies, and early intervention. Lifestyle factors such as physical activity, smoking, and dietary habits play a significant role in the onset and progression of both conditions. This cross-sectional descriptive study collected data from 100 participants across hospitals and private and public clinics in Tripoli. The sample included individuals both under and over 50 years of age. A questionnaire-based survey was used, divided into three sections: (1) demographic and biodemographic data, (2) clinical features, and (3) behavioral attributes. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, with correlation tests identifying relationships between key variables. Findings revealed that 73% of participants were middle-income, and 46% had a high school diploma. Significant correlations were found between smoking, exercise habits, and the frequency of weekly dialysis sessions. The study also highlighted a high incidence of chronic kidney failure among diabetic patients in Libya, emphasizing the role of modifiable lifestyle factors in disease progression. These results underscore the need for an interdisciplinary approach to kidney disease prevention, particularly in early-stage diabetes management, to reduce the risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD).