Urolithiasis Prevalence and Associated Factors Among Adult Outpatients in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND

Urolithiasis represents a substantial global health concern with considerable morbidity. Limited epidemiological data exist regarding its prevalence and associated factors in Ethiopia, particularly in urban settings. This cross-sectional study is aimed at determining the prevalence of urolithiasis and identifying associated risk factors among adult patients attending outpatient departments of selected public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

METHODS

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July 1 to August 15, 2024, among 220 adult patients systematically selected from three public hospitals in Addis Ababa. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and medical record reviews. Multivariate binary logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of urolithiasis, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

The prevalence of urolithiasis was 15.0% (33/220). In multivariate analysis, family history of kidney stones (AOR = 7.20, 95% CI: 2.78-18.65), sedentary lifestyle (AOR = 3.89, 95% CI: 1.43-10.63), regular alcohol consumption (AOR = 3.43, 95% CI: 1.36-8.68), and hyperlipidemia (AOR = 3.81, 95% CI: 1.09-13.35) were associated with increased odds of urolithiasis, with confidence intervals indicating moderate to strong positive associations. Conversely, adequate water intake (≥ 2 L/day) demonstrated a protective association (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.13-0.96).

CONCLUSIONS

In this cross-sectional study, urolithiasis affected a substantial proportion of adult outpatients in Addis Ababa. Associations were identified with genetic predisposition, modifiable lifestyle factors including physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, inadequate hydration, and metabolic abnormalities. These findings, while not demonstrating causality, underscore the need for targeted preventive strategies and further longitudinal research.