Prevalence and Causes of Acute Kidney Injury and Chronic Kidney Disease in Ghana: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are major contributors to morbidity and mortality globally, with a growing burden in sub-Saharan Africa. In Ghana, kidney disease is increasingly recognized as a public health concern; however, pooled data on its prevalence and etiology is absent. This systematic review and meta-analysis seeks to synthesize available evidence on the prevalence and causes of AKI and CKD in Ghana. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted across electronic databases to identify observational studies reporting the prevalence and/or causes of AKI and CKD in Ghana. Eligible studies included hospital-based and community-based investigations published in peer-reviewed journals. Data were extracted on study characteristics, diagnostic criteria, prevalence estimates, and reported etiologies. Study selection followed predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed despite substantial heterogeneity, and results were interpreted with caution. RESULTS: Twenty-seven (27) studies involving 11,245 participants were included. The pooled prevalence of AKI in Ghana was 21% (95% CI: 9–34%), while the pooled prevalence of CKD was 19% (95% CI: 16–23%). AKI was predominantly reported among hospitalized patients and was mainly attributed to sepsis, hemolysis, hypertensive emergencies, and obstetric complications. CKD was primarily driven by chronic glomerulonephritis, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus across most study populations. CONCLUSION: The burden of AKI and CKD in Ghana is high, with approximately one in five patients affected. Preventable causes such as infections, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and glomerular diseases account for most cases, highlighting the urgent need for improved early detection, standardized diagnostic approaches, and strengthened kidney disease prevention and surveillance in Ghana.