Medical Officer calls for preventive approach to tackle kidney diseases in Ghana

Story By: Rebecca Okine

As the world observed World Kidney Day yesterday, Dr. Selasi Daddy, a Medical Officer at the Medical Intensive Care Unit of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital has called on government to prioritise preventive measures to curb the rise of kidney diseases in the country.

In an interview with The New Finder, Dr. Daddy explained that preventing kidney diseases before they reach advanced stages would help reduce the financial burden on the nation, as kidney treatments are expensive and often reliant on imported equipment. She explained that much of the equipment used for dialysis and kidney treatment is sourced from abroad, increasing costs for both patients and the healthcare system.

“If we can prevent people from getting to the stage where they develop kidney diseases, then that helps us as a country to reduce the cost we incur on kidney issues,” Dr. Daddy said.

In recent years, kidney diseases have become an increasing concern in Ghana, with a growing number of citizens facing dialysis treatment needs. In 2023, Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah, the Chief Executive Officer of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, revealed that approximately 17% of the Ghanaian population is affected by kidney problems.

In response to the growing health crisis, the previous administration under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo allocated GH¢ 2 million through the National Health Insurance Scheme to address kidney-related challenges. This initiative was aimed at improving treatment accessibility and offering support to patients in need.

The current administration, led by President John Mahama, has also responded with the launch of the MahamaCares project. One of the key focuses of this initiative is to provide assistance to individuals battling kidney diseases, furthering the country’s efforts to support kidney patients.

Amid these ongoing efforts, Dr. Daddy called for increased collaboration between the government, health sector professionals, and relevant stakeholders. She emphasised the need to address the growing demand for dialysis services and improve accessibility to treatment, urging the government to take a more proactive role in tackling the rising kidney disease burden.

Promoting Healthy Lifestyles

In addition to calling for government intervention, Dr. Daddy urged Ghanaians, particularly the youth, to be more conscious of their lifestyle choices. She stressed that what people consume plays a major role in their kidney health, and poor choices can lead to serious kidney issues.

“There are many harmful substances being consumed these days, including uncertified drugs, herbal concoctions, and unregulated drinks,” Dr. Daddy warned. “As Ghanaians, we should be concerned about what we put into our bodies. These substances can cause lasting damage to our kidneys.”

She specifically advised against the use of uncertified drugs and self-medication as well as over the counter drugs noting that these are the leading causes of kidney diseases among the Ghanaian populace.

Raising Awareness on Kidney Health

Dr. Daddy also encouraged Ghanaians to take advantage of World Kidney Day to check on their kidney health, aligning with this year’s theme: Are your Kidneys Okay? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health.

She explained that kidney issues often have no obvious symptoms in their early stages, making early detection crucial.

“Some common signs of kidney challenges include unusual tiredness, swelling in the feet or ankles, and changes in urination patterns,” Dr. Daddy shared. “If these symptoms are noticed, it’s essential to seek medical attention before the condition worsens.”

She also highlighted that maintaining a healthy lifestyle and being aware of potential risks is more important than ever.

The Role of Hydration

Dr. Daddy further elaborated on the importance of hydration in supporting kidney function. The kidneys play a vital role in cleansing the body by removing toxins and converting waste into urine. Proper hydration helps the kidneys perform this task more efficiently.

“When you have proper hydration, your kidneys can effectively filter waste substances from your blood,” she explained. “A healthy adult should aim for 2 to 3 liters of water per day, which is roughly equivalent to six sachets of water.

However, she advised that individuals with pre-existing conditions like heart or kidney problems should adjust their water intake to avoid putting extra strain on their kidneys.

World Kidney Day

Yesterday’s observance of World Kidney Day served as a reminder of the increasing global challenge of kidney diseases. The day provided an opportunity for health professionals and individuals to raise awareness about kidney health and the steps that can be taken to prevent kidney failure and other related issues. As kidney-related diseases continue to pose a significant health challenge, Dr. Daddy’s call for preventive measures and lifestyle changes is timely and essential for addressing this growing concern in Ghana.