Long Waits and Rising Cases: MTRH Highlights Kidney Disease Crisis on World Kidney Day
“At MTRH, we conduct approximately 1,300 dialysis sessions every month, totaling over 13,000 annually. We are also actively following up with 160 patients in need of continued kidney care,” Dr. Kirwa noted.
MTRH CEO Dr. Philip Kirwa flags off the World Kidney Day procession, championing awareness and advocacy for kidney health
As the world commemorates World Kidney Day, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) has raised concerns over the growing burden of kidney disease in Kenya, with many patients still waiting in long queues for life-saving kidney surgeries.
Dr. Philip Kirwa, CEO of MTRH, revealed alarming statistics, stating that five million Kenyans currently suffer from renal diseases, and projections suggest this number could double by 2040 if urgent interventions are not made.
“At MTRH, we conduct approximately 1,300 dialysis sessions every month, totaling over 13,000 annually. We are also actively following up with 160 patients in need of continued kidney care,” Dr. Kirwa noted.
Need for Early Diagnosis and Public Awareness
Dr. Peter Koech, a kidney specialist at MTRH, emphasized the critical need for public awareness regarding kidney diseases, stating that most patients only seek medical attention when the disease has already damaged 80-85% of their kidney function.
“By the time most patients come to the hospital, their kidneys are already severely affected. Early diagnosis can save lives, but many people are unaware of the warning signs,” Dr. Koech said.
Medical experts have reiterated the importance of regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and lifestyle changes to curb the rising cases of kidney failure.
Hope for Patients as Organ Transplant Bill Advances
MTRH has expressed optimism about The Human Tissue and Organ Transplantation Bill, 2024, introduced by Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje. The proposed legislation aims to streamline organ donation by allowing individuals to decide on organ donation after death, while also permitting close relatives to give consent if no prior decision was made.
“This bill, once passed, will be a game-changer in addressing the organ shortage in Kenya and will provide relief to thousands of patients on transplant waiting lists,” MTRH officials stated, calling on Parliament to expedite its passage.
A Survivor’s Story: 25 Years After Transplant
For kidney disease survivor Titus Terigin, MTRH’s efforts have been life-saving. Having undergone a successful kidney transplant 25 years ago, he expressed gratitude for the hospital’s specialized care and support.
“I am thankful to MTRH for their excellent management of my condition. The new Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) has also eased the financial burden, covering the cost of anti-rejection drugs and dialysis,” Terigin shared.
As Kenya grapples with an increasing number of kidney disease cases, medical professionals and policymakers are urging swift action to improve treatment access and organ donation frameworks, ensuring that more patients get a second chance at life.
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