“Chronic kidney disease is a common medical problem worldwide and estimates in Pakistan show that one in three citizens over 40 has some form of kidney disease,” said Dr Waqar Kashif, Consultant Nephrologist at Aga Khan University (AKU). Studies show that diabetes and high blood pressure are the two most common causes of chronic kidney disease and, if left unchecked, patients would ultimately need to undergo dialysis up to three times a week to stay alive. He was speaking at a programme organised by the University on March 6, 2008 to commemorate World Kidney Day.
Dr Kashif called for widespread screening of those sections of society that are at risk of kidney disease, emphasising that it is essential to create awareness amongst physicians as well as the public. Studies have shown that early detection and treatment can delay and possibly prevent kidney failure in most patients.
Identifying key strategies, he advised among other things strict control of blood pressure and blood glucose levels, the use of certain classes of blood pressure medicines, avoiding drugs that may cause further kidney damage (especially some pain killers), a low salt diet and cardiovascular risk reduction.
Consultant Urologist at AKU, Dr Raziuddin Biyabani, speaking on renal stone disease in Pakistan said that this is a significant preventable cause of chronic kidney disease, highlighting that the country lies in the ‘stone belt'. Hospital figures reflect up to 200 cases per 100,000 people in the southern regions. In order to prevent stones recurring, Dr Biyabani advised treating and preventing urinary infection, increasing fluid intake, decreasing protein intake and eating in moderation.
Explaining the different types of treatment available, Dr Biyababni spoke of endoscopy which is used to treat stones in the urethra and urinary bladder. Larger stones in the kidney can be removed with a procedure – PCNL – which involves approaching the stones through a small hole in the skin.
Diagnosis of urinary tract infection in children is important for the early detection and prevention of chronic kidney disease in children. Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist at AKU, Professor Iqtidar Khan, spoke of early warning signs of kidney disease in children, which includes high blood pressure, pain in back, puffy eyes, swollen hands and feet and bloody urine. He stressed the importance of early investigation, on any suspicion of kidney disease or infection.
Consultant Nephrologist at AKU, Dr Tazeen Jafar, spoke on key aspects of high blood pressure and kidney disease.
As part of its outreach programme and commitment to creating awareness of early diagnosis and timely treatment, AKUH has organised over 250 Signs, Symptoms and Care programmes in Karachi, Hyderabad, Quetta, Nawabshah and the UAE, benefiting more than 40,000 people.
The University Hospital's Patient Welfare Programme offers financial assistance to those patients who are unable to afford the cost of their medical treatment. Since its inception in 1986, PKR 2 billion has been disbursed to more than 300,000 needy patients.
