LAUSR

High blood pressure is a leading cause of end stage renal disease (ESRD). However; early detection of chronic kidney disease (CKD) delays progression of kidney failure and reduces the risk of cardiovascular complications. Therefore, the aim of our study was to assess the attitudes and practices of interns and residents regarding screening for chronic kidney disease in patients with high blood pressure at a Moroccan University hospital. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 100 medical interns and residents at Mohammed VI university hospital of Marrakesh. Overall, 82% of the trainees who responded (response rate 89%) stated that they were sensitized to screening for chronic kidney disease in patients with high blood pressure, mainly during their medical studies. However, trainees who systematically monitor renal function in their hypertensive patients did not exceed 13%. While 34% of respondents preferred to refer them to a cardiologist or a nephrologist, and 35% looked for renal impairment only in special situations, dominated by the presence of diabetes or severe hypertension. The main tests used by the participants for monitoring kidney function were represented by blood renal function (100%) and 24h urine protein (61%). Microalbuminuria was mentioned by only 23% of the trainees. The major limits reported by the surveyed physicians were the lack of experience and the non- compliance of patients. Our findings revealed inappropriate practices among our training doctors concerning the screening of CKD in hypertensive patients. Therefore, more educational workshops and courses are recommended, especially in low-income countries where access to dialysis is not always affordable.