Roles of Family in the Prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease and Stroke among Family Members at Risk of Developing the Diseases Diseases

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and stroke are on the rising trend worldwide including Thailand. This is due to the increasing prevalence of risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Existing population and community-based prevention programs do not seem to be effective in delaying the progression of at-risk people to a disease state. In accordance with recent national policies on family health which call for a more active role of family in preventive health, a family-centred approach to prevention of CKD and stroke is considered. This article presents the findings from field experiences in accordance with relevant literature and proposes a family-centred model to CKD and stroke prevention among at-risk family members within Thai contexts. Findings suggest that people who develop the diseases often live in environments that promote unhealthy behaviours, do not have a good role model at home, lack of motivation for healthy behaviors and family support. Based on these findings, a system approach was used to design a model. The resultant model addresses the following aspects: 1) Advice and informational support, 2) Healthy home environments, 3) Family role modeling, 4) Motivational support, and 5) Improvement through Plan-Do-Check-Act. The model was rated by 10 family members as likely feasible.