Philippine E-Journals

Screening for Microalbuminuria among College Students

Ferly V Peñaverde | Jose G. Perez | Dessah Mae J Peldonia | Cathlyn Leigh O Pinuela | Mardeluna A Portillo | Jekkah May Prudente | Ma. Clarisse Anne B Quiñon | Nicole Edrique C Ramos | Jose III D Relatorre | Josef III T Nava | Abigail Marie V Perez

 

Abstract:

The presence of albumin in urine shows early deterioration of renal function and microalbuminuria (MA) is an early marker for renal damage and for future cardiovascular disease. Early detection decreases mortality rates and saves people from financial burden in kidney disease treatments. This study aimed to determine the presence of microalbuminuria among the 4th year BMLS students of the University of San Agustin. This is a cross-sectional, descriptive study that utilized a stratified, random sampling technique. Early morning midstream urine, collected by the participants, was tested with MicroalbuPHAN LAURA test strips. Results were read, interpreted, and validated by a registered medical technologist. Positive and negative controls were used. Personal data sheets about the participants sex and family history of diabetes were given and their BMI were also computed. The data gathered were then subjected to descriptive statistics for analysis. One hundred fifty-two (152) out of the 160 (95%) respondents screened positive for MA. Ninety-four point forty-four percent (94.44%) of the male respondents and 95.28% of the female respondents tested positive for MA. One hundred percent (100%) of the underweight respondents, 93.94% of the respondents with normal BMI, 100% of the overweight respondents, and 88.24% of the obese respondents tested positive for MA. Ninety-six point fifty-nine (96.59%) of those with a family history of diabetes and 93.06% of those without a family history of diabetes tested positive for MA. The results of this study show a higher prevalence of MA among respondents compared with previous studies. The prevalence of microalbuminuria was found out to have no significant relationship with sex, BMI, and family history of diabetes. However, the majority of the respondents tested positive for MA regardless of the factors as mentioned earlier, giving the prospect that the high numbers are clinically significant. Including other possible contributory factors, a 24-h urine sample and Micral test strips are recommended.