By Ebele Egoh
The Anambra State Hospital Administrator, Dr. Frank Ifeanaeme, has urged members of the public to prioritise regular kidney screening and routine medical check-ups to promote early detection and help reduce the burden of kidney disease.
Dr. Ifeanaeme made the call on Aug. 21 during an interview with a health correspondent in his office, stressing that early detection and timely treatment could prevent complications and improve health outcomes.
He explained that the kidneys are vital organs responsible for removing waste and excess fluid from the body, maintaining the balance of water and essential minerals, regulating blood pressure and supporting the production of red blood cells.
According to him, kidney disease can be linked to conditions including diabetes, hypertension and HIV, as well as severe blood loss, unhealthy lifestyles, harmful substance use, unregulated herbal mixtures, excessive alcohol consumption and poor health seeking behaviour.
He said warning signs may include reduced urine output, swelling of the face or legs, rapid breathing, weakness and vomiting, advising anyone experiencing such symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.
The hospital administrator recommended adequate water intake, a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoidance of self-medication and smoking, moderation in alcohol consumption, as well as proper management of conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
While noting that dialysis and kidney transplantation may be required in advanced cases, Dr. Ifeanaeme emphasised that prevention and early intervention remain crucial.
He, therefore, called on government, development partners and non-governmental organisations to strengthen public enlightenment and expand access to affordable or subsidised kidney screening, particularly in rural communities.
Ebele Egoh is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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