Dietary and lifestyle modifications can reduce kidney stone (KS) recurrence rates. This study evaluated Irish general practitioners’ (GP) knowledge and practices in dietary management to reduce KS recurrence.
Subjects and method:
A cross-sectional online study of GPs in Ireland. The GP Knowledge of Kidney Stones Dietary Management questionnaire was hosted through the Qualtrics platform.
Results:
Of 70 GPs who participated most (75%) recognised dietary modification and increase in fluid (98%) as effective KS recurrence preventive measures. However, 53% were not confident in the role of diet with 45% reporting they never discussed diet in the context of KS. Only 31% reported utilising best practice advice to drink 2–3 L of fluid daily. There were no significant associations between years of experience and belief in the role of dietary and lifestyle modifications in the management of KS (χ2 = 4.25, df = 2, p = 0.12), or the positive role of the reduction of protein in KS prevention (Fisher exact test = 0.48, p = 0.23).
Conclusion:
The study identifies gaps in GP knowledge on dietary and lifestyle factors for KS recurrence. Targeted education for GPs may enhance patient counselling on prevention, which may be helpful in patient education around preventing recurrence of KS.
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