Mr. Labram Musah, from the Ghana NCD Alliance, has urged Ghanaians to prioritize kidney health to prevent diseases. Highlighting the significance of early detection, he emphasized personal health ownership during discussions for the upcoming 2025 World Kidney Day. With chronic kidney disease affecting 13.3% of the population, awareness, healthy lifestyles, and government measures are essential for improvement.
In Accra, Mr. Labram Musah, National Coordinator of the Ghana NCD Alliance, has urged Ghanaians to prioritize their kidney health in light of the upcoming 2025 World Kidney Day. The kidneys are essential organs that perform critical functions, making it crucial to prevent diseases that impair their function. Mr. Musah emphasized the necessity for individuals to take responsibility for their health by regularly monitoring the status of their kidneys.
During a media interaction, he stressed that early detection is key to preventing end-stage kidney diseases. The annual World Kidney Day, observed on the second Thursday in March, aims to promote kidney health awareness and the importance of prevention strategies. The theme for the 2025 observance, “Are Your Kidneys Ok? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health,” reflects the focus on timely interventions.
Kidneys filter waste and excess fluid, maintain electrolytic balance, regulate blood pressure, and produce critical hormones. In Ghana, chronic kidney disease affects approximately 13.3% of the population, with chronic glomerulonephritis, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension identified as major contributing factors. Mr. Musah indicated that alcohol consumption and smoking significantly increase the risk of developing kidney diseases.
He further encouraged the public to be cautious about their dietary choices and their implications for health. Additionally, he called upon the government to implement promotional health measures to raise awareness and reduce kidney disease incidence. Mr. Kojo Ahenkorah, President of the Renal Patients Association, reinforced the seriousness of kidney disease and cautioned against self-medication, particularly the purchase of over-the-counter medications without prescriptions, which can exacerbate kidney issues. He advocated for healthy lifestyle choices and annual health check-ups for early detection.
In summary, the critical message from health officials is the importance of kidney health management. By fostering awareness, promoting healthy lifestyles, and supporting regular health check-ups, Ghanaians can mitigate the risks associated with kidney diseases. The observance of World Kidney Day serves as a reminder of these significant health responsibilities that individuals must embrace to protect their kidneys.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
