FCT PRIMARY HEALTH CARE BOARD LEADS ADVOCACY TO INCREASE ACCESS TO MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE

By: Reginald Uhegbu

Chronic kidney disease has been described as curable and manageable if detected early.

Stakeholders expressed this view during a community sensitization and media orientation on chronic kidney disease organized by the Disease Control Department of the FCT Primary Health Care Board.

The event, which was organized to draw the attention of communities in the FCT to chronic kidney disease, attracted participants from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and government agencies such as the Public Health Department, the Hospital Management Board, as well as selected primary health facilities.

Speaking at the occasion, the Acting Director of the Disease Control Department of the FCT Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Aderonke Akande, stated that kidney disease is not a death sentence, as is often erroneously believed.

She advised FCT residents to be cautious about their lifestyle choices, which could trigger kidney disease.

Dr. Akande warned that excessive intake of alcohol and the use of uncertified substances could lead to kidney disease.

The issue of the high cost of dialysis for patients with kidney disease was also raised at the event.

A Consultant Nephrologist with the FCT Hospital Management Board, Dr. Hajara Dalhatu, stated that the government still subsidizes the cost of dialysis.

However, she noted that the high cost of commodities used in treatment, which are not always readily available, contributes significantly to the overall expense.

A highlight of the event was a presentation by a patient living with kidney disease, who shared his experience with the condition. He also appealed to the government and individuals to assist patients in accessing treatment and dialysis at an affordable cost.