OBJECTIVES: End stage chronic kidney disease (CKD), and notably, dialysis, have a large impact on the quality of life of patients. However, there is a paucity of data surrounding the impact of this condition on caregivers’ lives and financial well-being. The aim of this study was to quantify the effect of advanced CKD on caregivers’ financial capacity and work productivity across four countries compared with the general population.

METHODS: Unpaid caregivers from Germany, Mexico, the US, and UK were enrolled to a non-interventional survey measuring the consumer financial protection bureau financial well-being assessment and the work productivity and activity impairment (WPAI) questionnaire. Scores were compared with a general population cohort, matched in sample size and demographic characteristics.

RESULTS: Surveys enrolled caregivers from Germany (n=99), Mexico (n=138), the US (n=113), and UK (n=116). Caregivers most often cared for a parent (36.5%) or partner (30.2%). Most caregivers (69.6%) were caring for patients receiving dialysis. Caregivers most often supported patients by providing help with taking medications (86.9%) and transport to/from hospital appointments (85.6%). Caregivers in the UK experienced worse financial wellbeing, with lower mean [SD] scores compared with the general population (49.52 [10.86] versus 55.55 [13.83]). Caring for patients with CKD had a negative impact on caregivers WPAI scores. Caregivers experienced similar levels of absenteeism, presenteeism, work impairment and non-activity work impairment across all countries, with an impairment up to 42%. Moreover, caregiving impacted caregivers’ employment status whereby caring responsibilities were listed as employment status in 3% (Germany), 3.6% (Mexico), 1.5% (US) and 8.6% (UK) of surveys.

CONCLUSIONS: These surveys provide evidence on the multinational financial burden and work productivity impairment associated with caregiving for patients with CKD, with increased requirements for caregivers as disease progresses. Considerations should be given to the financial impact of disease when addressing the societal burden of CKD.