Abstract: TH-PO0594
Prevalence, Outcomes, and Barriers to Kidney Care Among Patients Admitted to Hospital with CKD Stages 3-5 in a Geographically Isolated, Underserved Island Population: A 10-Year Study in Batanes, Philippines
Session Information
- CKD: From Global Burden to Precision Care - Epidemiology, Demographics, Geographies, and Risk Factors
October 22, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: CKD (Non-Dialysis)
- 2201 CKD (Non-Dialysis): Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Prevention
Author
- Hortelano, Maribel Jane G., Batanes General Hospital, Basco, Batanes, Region II, Philippines
Background
The Batanes Group of Islands is the northernmost and smallest province in the Philippines, inhabited by 18,000 Ivatan people. Due to its geographical isolation, there has never been a long-term epidemiologic data on CKD burden and kidney care access barriers in this region, making this study critical for evidence-based policy and intervention planning.
Methods
Medical records of all adult CKD Stages 3-5 patients admitted at Batanes General Hospital from 2016 to 2025 were reviewed and analyzed. Data extracted are 10-year prevalence, comorbidities, outcome of patients, and a survey of the common barriers and challenges in accessing nephrology care in the province.
Results
Among the 10,585 admitted adult patients, 327 had CKD Stages 3-5 from 2016 to 2025. The prevalence was 3.08% in this 10-year study. More males were diagnosed with CKD than females (M=56%, F=44%). The most common comorbidities were hypertension (68.8%), diabetes (51.6%), heart failure (3.6%), and gouty nephropathy (3%). Majority (71%) of CKD stage 3 had stable renal status while 65% of CKD stage 4 patients progressed to ESRD. Among patients admitted with CKD Stage 5, most (70%) died of uremic complications due to lack of dialysis service while only 28% were transferred to a tertiary hospital. Barriers to kidney care identified on survey include: 1) lack of nephrologist, 2) lack of dialysis service, 3) distance and geographic isolation, 4) financial burden, 5) referral delays due to unfavorable weather or cancelled flights, 6) long-term relocation dilemma, and 7) refusal of nephrology treatment due to beliefs.
Conclusion
This study highlights the burden of CKD in a geographically isolated and underserved region, its gaps and challenges in accessing kidney care, and the need to formulate evidence-based policies and interventions to make Nephrology care accessible to all.