The rise of kidney disease an alarming, a call for collective efforts to reduce the risk factors

The rise of kidney disease an alarming, a call for collective efforts to reduce the risk factors

Kidney disease is a major health concern in Ghana, as the rate at which the disease is affecting the country’s population from children to adults is alarming.

In response to this alarming crisis, an interview was conducted with Dr Osei Tutu, Medical Director at Washington Specialist Hospital, regarding the causes of Kidney disease, factors contributing to its spread, and effective prevention methods.

Dr Osei Tutu explained that the main function of the kidney in the human body is to extract any unwanted substance from the body and also control blood pressure.

He further continues that the disease is often caused by diabetes, High Blood Pressure, genetic, self-medication, etc. Stating that another risk factor is the rise of illegal mining in some communities leading to water pollution.

The Medical Director of Washington Specialist Hospital stressed that the disease is preventable when detected early and when seeking medical treatment.

Dr Osei Tutu urged Ghanaians to inculcate the habit of regular checkups, avoid the use of regular painkillers, intake of unregulated herbal medicines etc as all these can help regulate the risk of getting the disease.

Miss Loretta Ofori, Administrator at Washington Specialist Hospital, stated that their facility has taken it upon themselves to educate the public on such diseases, but would urge the government to increase the number of sessions of the kidney dialysis on the NHIS to three instead of two as most patients still struggle to afford the remaining dialysis due to the cost involved.

She further called on the government to include a percentage of kidney drugs in the NHIS since the high cost of kidney drugs mostly prevents people with such conditions from seeking medical treatment.

 

Story by Gifty Badu Boakye