Prevalence of Hypokalaemia in patients presenting with Diarrhoea at Kiswa Health Centre III, Nakawa Division in Kampala District. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i2.2300Keywords:
Diarrhoea, hypokalemia, electrolyte imbalance, high-risk groups, serum potassiumAbstract
Background:
This study aims to determine the prevalence of Hypokalaemia in patients presenting with Diarrhoea at Kiswa Health Centre III, Nakawa Division, in Kampala District.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 138 patients presenting with diarrhea. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and laboratory analysis of serum sodium levels using an automated chemistry analyzer. Results are presented in tables, graphs, and charts.
Results:
The study enrolled 138 respondents presenting with diarrhea, with the largest age group being 18–35 years (40 participants, 29.0%), followed by children under five years (36 participants, 26.1%). Young children (<5 years) and elderly adults (≥60 years) were more prone to severe electrolyte imbalances. Males constituted a slightly higher proportion of the study population (51.4%) compared to females (46.4%). Hypokalemia affected participants across all age groups, with children under five being the most affected, accounting for 32 cases (23.2%) across all severities: 14 mild (10.1%), 11 moderate (8.0%), and 7 severe (5.1%). Elderly adults contributed 17 cases (12.3%), including 7 mild (5.1%), 5 moderate (3.6%), and 5 severe cases (3.6%). Adults aged 18–35 years recorded 16 cases (11.6%), adolescents 5–17 years 10 cases (7.2%), and adults 36–59 years 11 cases (8.0%). Mild hypokalemia was the most common across all age groups, followed by moderate cases, while severe hypokalemia was less frequent. Overall, children under five and elderly adults were consistently the most affected, highlighting their increased vulnerability to potassium depletion during diarrheal illness.
Conclusion:
Hypokalemia is common among diarrheal patients, with children under five and adults over 60 being most vulnerable, and mild cases being the most frequent.
Recommendation:
Routine potassium screening, proper rehydration, and patient education are essential to prevent and manage hypokalemia, especially in high-risk groups.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Irene Birungi, Hasifa Nansereko, Anthony Ssekitoleko, Fransisco Semuwemba, Jane Frank Nalubega
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