Lack of awareness of kidney complications despite familiarity with diabetes: a multi-ethnic qualitative study

Background: Comparing South Asians with White Europeans and examining the cultural context of any observed differences is a necessary step in achieving culturally competent services and in helping to reduce inequalities which exist in outcomes for South Asian patients with End Stage Renal Disease. Methods: Newly referred South Asian and White adult patients with diabetes were recruited from nephrology outpatient clinics in three UK centres—Luton, West London and Leicester. A semi-structured qualitative interview was conducted with 48 patients and a thematic analysis of the data produced is reported. Results: Access to knowledge about renal complications of diabetes, was related to referral to renal services and recent monitoring and not to previous medical encounters. South Asian patients were aware of the high prevalence of diabetes within South Asian communities and a small number reported experience of kidney problems in other family members although any connection with diabetes was not made. Conclusion: Ongoing renal care information should be provided to people with diabetes and the cultural context of any information exchange needs to be addressed.