Ghanaians Urged to Prioritize Kidney Health to Prevent Diseases

Mr. Labram Musah advises Ghanaians to prioritize kidney health to prevent diseases, emphasizing the importance of early detection and regular check-ups. The 2025 World Kidney Day, themed “Are Your Kidneys Ok? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health,” focuses on awareness and prevention. With a chronic kidney disease prevalence of 13.3% in Ghana, lifestyle factors such as alcohol and smoking are critical risk elements requiring public attention.

Mr. Labram Musah, the National Coordinator of the Ghana NCD (Non-Communicable Diseases) Alliance, has urged Ghanaians to prioritize kidney health to prevent diseases. He emphasized the kidneys’ critical functions and the importance of preventing ailments that affect their operation. During a media interaction in recognition of the upcoming World Kidney Day, he highlighted the necessity for individuals to take charge of their health by regularly monitoring their kidney status.

World Kidney Day is celebrated on the second Thursday of March, focusing on the significance of kidney health and the importance of early detection. The theme for the 2025 observance, which falls on March 13, is “Are Your Kidneys Ok? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health.” This motto underscores the urgency of timely intervention in the management and prevention of kidney-related diseases.

The kidneys are essential organs responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids, maintaining electrolyte balance, regulating blood pressure, and producing hormones that influence red blood cell formation and vitamin D activation. In Ghana, chronic kidney disease has a prevalence rate of approximately 13.3%, with chronic glomerulonephritis, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension as the leading causes of this health issue.

Mr. Musah noted that alcohol consumption and smoking are significant risk factors contributing to kidney disease, alongside hypertension and diabetes. He recommended that individuals remain conscious of their dietary choices to safeguard their kidney health. He further called upon the Government to implement health promotion strategies and raise awareness to mitigate the infection rates of kidney diseases.

Mr. Kojo Ahenkorah, President of the Renal Patients Association, remarked that kidney diseases are serious concerns and urged the public to cease self-medication practices. He cautioned against acquiring medicines without prescriptions, as this may lead to further kidney complications. Emphasizing healthful lifestyle choices and regular annual check-ups, Mr. Ahenkorah advocated for early detection and appropriate treatment.

In summary, Ghanaians are encouraged to take proactive measures in maintaining kidney health as outlined by Mr. Labram Musah. Early detection through regular check-ups, awareness of risk factors, and healthy lifestyle choices are essential for preventing kidney diseases. The observations associated with World Kidney Day highlight the significance of education and government initiatives in promoting kidney health across the nation.

Original Source: gna.org.gh