Comparison of the Socio-Economic Situation and Living Conditions of Syrian and Underprivileged Turkish Patients Receiving Hemodialysis

Objective: Turkey has nearly 2.5 million Syrian refugees, and it provides them healthcare, education, shelter, and food aid. This study aimed to determine some of the socio-demographic features, income status, shelter, and living conditions in Syrian and socially underprivileged Turkish patients receiving hemodialysis. This study also makes comparisons between the two groups.

Materials and Methods: We included 23 Syrian and 82 socially underprivileged Turkish patients receiving hemodialysis in this study. The questionnaires included queries on socio-demographic, income distribution, and living conditions.

Results: Syrian patients were younger (34.08±12.30 vs. 55.13±17.96 years; p=0.001) and better educated (p=0.009). Compliance with hemodialysis sessions was lower in refugees (p=0.002). Per capita income was lower among Syrian patients, although there were more employed persons in Syrian families (1.86±1.09 vs. 1.04±0.92; p=0.003). The mean number of household members was 7.4±3 and 4.5±2 in families of Syrian and Turkish patients, respectively (p=0.001). Most Syrian patients were living as tenants (p=0.002) without access to hot water (p=0.043). Having home appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators was more common among Turkish patients (p=0.013; p<0.001; p=0.001). Syrian patients could not afford to repair old and worn furniture and could not pay their bills (p=0.011; p=0.001).

Conclusion: Socio-economic status of Syrian patients receiving hemodialysis is worse as compared to that of underprivileged Turkish patients receiving hemodialysis. Conducting effective intervention is of critical importance.

Cite this article as: Yılmaz M, Aydın N, Doğan C, Turan F, Yılmaz E, Vardar Y, et al. Comparison of the Socio-Economic Situation and Living Conditions of Syrian and Underprivileged Turkish Patients Receiving Hemodialysis. Turk J Nephrol 2019; 28(4): 269-74.