Quality of life, disability, and handgrip strength in patients undergoing hemodialysis in Lima, Peru

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the association between quality of life, level of disability, and handgrip strength in patients undergoing hemodialysis at a dialysis service in Lima, Peru. Materials and methods: An analytical cross-sectional study based on secondary data derived from a pilot physical therapy and exercise program conducted between January and June 2025. Quality of life was assessed using the Kidney Disease Quality of Life-36 (KDQOL-36), and disability was measured with the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0). In a subsample, handgrip strength was measured using dynamometry. Descriptive analyses, Spearman and Pearson correlations, and ordinal logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, and type of vascular access were performed. Results: A total of 51 adult patients undergoing hemodialysis were included. The mean age was 52.6 ± 15.4 years, and 58.8% were male. 90.2% scored ≤50 on the physical health component of the KDQOL-36. 64.7% reported some degree of disability, primarily in social participation (58.8%) and mobility (49%). A statistically significant correlation was observed between physical health, disability, and handgrip strength (p < 0.05). Limitations such as climbing stairs, performing moderate activities, doing household chores or working, as well as symptoms including muscle pain, chest pain, or dizziness, were associated with higher odds of disability (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Greater impairment in physical health and a high prevalence of disability were identified. Handgrip strength was associated with both physical health and disability. Functional limitations and symptoms linked to higher odds of disability support the incorporation of physical therapy and exercise programs into the comprehensive management of chronic kidney disease.