Preventive behaviors in recurrent kidney stone and barriers to performing these behaviors

Incidence and recurrence of kidney stones is increasing worldwide. There are certainly many barriers in performing health behaviors like preventive behaviors in recurrent kidney stones. This study was conducted with the aim to investigate preventive behaviors in recurrent kidney stones and barriers to performing these behaviors. In this study, 210 patients referred to 3 health centers were selected as participants. Data collection tool was a questionnaire, comprising personal details and questions to evaluate preventive behaviors from recurring kidney stones and obstacles to perform such behaviors, which was completed in the form of interviews. Mean score of recurrence preventive behaviors was 38.75±7.85 out of 70, and mean score of perceived obstacles was 34.07±7.39 out of 60. There was an inverse and significant correlation between preventive behavior and perceived obstacles.The least recurrent preventive behavior was consulting nutritionist about the use of fruit and vegetables according to stone type, and lack of drinking water at least 2 to 3 liters daily was reported as the next behavior. Lack of knowledge of appropriate diet to prevent kidney stone recurrence was the biggest obstacle that people faced in during performing these behaviors. Through educating patients with kidney stone and their families, with emphasis on diet associated to type of kidney stone and importance of regular intake of water reduced recurrence of the disease or at least the interval between recurrences increased.