Abstract:
Kidney dysfunction has become an emerging health concern among adolescents due to unhealthy lifestyle habits, poor dietary practices, inadequate hydration, and limited awareness of kidney health. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of kidney dysfunction and identify its associated risk factors among public school learners at La Union National High School in the City of San Fernando, La Union. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed involving sixteen (16) high school students. Data were collected through anthropometric measurements, vital sign assessments, structured questionnaires, and laboratory urinalysis, including microalbumin testing. The findings revealed a high prevalence of early kidney dysfunction, with 62.5% (n=10) of respondents exhibiting clinical signs of renal abnormalities as validated by physician assessment. While the majority of participants maintained a normal Body Mass Index (BMI) and blood pressure levels, a significant statistical difference in dysfunction prevalence was observed when categorized by grade level. Conversely, no significant association was observed between kidney dysfunction and identified risk factors, including dietary intake, hydration practices, drug use, and family history. These results underscore the importance of routine school-based kidney health screening and early preventive measures to identify asymptomatic learners at risk, thereby supporting long-term renal health.
