Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Dr. Philip Kirwa, today joined the global community in marking World Kidney Day (WKD) 2025. The event, which was held at MTRH’s Memorial Grounds, saw the hospital take a proactive role in raising awareness about kidney health, while also offering free kidney health screening for the public.
World Kidney Day, observed annually on the second Thursday of March, is a global health campaign aimed at increasing awareness about kidney diseases and the importance of early detection and prevention. This year’s theme, "Are Your Kidneys OK? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health," underscores the importance of early screening in detecting kidney disease before it reaches advanced stages, where it becomes a more significant burden to both patients and healthcare systems.
Dr. Peter Koech, the Acting Head of the Nephrology Department at MTRH, spoke at the event and stressed the critical need for prompt and continuous kidney health screening. He emphasized that early detection and intervention can significantly reduce the risk of complications, which could otherwise lead to the need for costly treatments, including dialysis and organ transplants.
"Kidney disease often progresses silently, showing no symptoms until it reaches advanced stages. However, with early screening, we can catch it before it becomes life-threatening. This is why today’s event is so important – it is a call to action for all Kenyans to prioritize their kidney health,” said Dr. Koech. He also highlighted the importance of routine monitoring, particularly for individuals who are at higher risk, including those with a history of uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity.
The Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Philip Kirwa, in his remarks, reiterated that World Kidney Day serves as an essential opportunity for Kenyans to reflect on their health and take concrete actions toward maintaining healthy kidneys. "The World Kidney Day is not just about awareness; it is about empowerment. It is about giving people the knowledge and tools they need to detect kidney problems early and make lifestyle changes that could prevent disease before it starts," Dr. Kirwa stated.
He noted that a prevention-focused approach is necessary to reduce the burden of kidney disease in Kenya. According to Dr. Kirwa, risk factors such as uncontrolled blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity play a significant role in the development of kidney disease. He stressed the importance of tackling these risk factors through public health campaigns and education to lower the prevalence of kidney disease in the country.
The event saw members of the public participate in free kidney health screenings provided by MTRH’s Nephrology Department. The screenings, which included simple yet effective tests such as blood pressure checks, blood and urine tests, allowed individuals to assess their kidney health and determine if they are at risk of developing kidney disease. Health experts at the screening stations offered valuable advice on how to maintain kidney health, such as proper hydration, a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and avoiding excessive use of over-the-counter medications that could harm the kidneys.
"We are not just diagnosing kidney problems today, but we are also helping individuals understand the importance of proactive health management. Early detection can make a huge difference. Simple tests such as blood and urine screenings can help detect kidney disease before it becomes severe and reduce the need for long-term treatment options such as dialysis," Dr. Koech explained.
In addition to the free screenings, MTRH also distributed informational brochures and materials aimed at educating the public on the risk factors for kidney disease, as well as lifestyle changes that can help prevent its onset. The hospital also offered counseling and referral services for those who were found to be at risk.
Dr. Kirwa pointed out that while Kenya has made significant strides in healthcare, there is still a need to address preventable diseases through early intervention and public health campaigns. "Our health system needs to be proactive in preventing diseases like kidney disease before they become widespread problems. It is essential that we invest in preventive care and health education to ensure a healthier future for all Kenyans."
World Kidney Day is not only a chance to reflect on individual health, but also an opportunity for health professionals and institutions to come together to share knowledge and create solutions for kidney disease prevention. At MTRH, the hospital’s commitment to improving public health is evident, with efforts such as today’s free screening playing a crucial role in building a healthier community.
The event was well-attended by members of the local community, health professionals, and representatives from various health organizations. It also sparked conversations about the need for better healthcare policies focused on prevention and early detection of chronic diseases.
As the day concluded, many left with a renewed sense of urgency about their kidney health and the importance of early screening. MTRH’s efforts to raise awareness about kidney disease and provide accessible screening services have made a significant impact, and the hospital plans to continue advocating for kidney health throughout the year.
With kidney disease on the rise globally, MTRH’s participation in World Kidney Day 2025 serves as an essential reminder for Kenyans to take action in protecting their kidney health and to seek early detection to prevent serious complications in the future. Through continued education, awareness, and early screening, Kenya can work toward reducing the burden of kidney disease and ensuring healthier communities for generations to come.
0 $type={facebook}:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.