Chronic Kidney Disease in Ghana: Treatment Challenges and Prevention Insights
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is becoming an alarming health issue in Ghana, particularly among the youth, due to high treatment costs and rising cases of diabetes and hypertension. Experts emphasize the need for public awareness, reduced salt consumption, and caution against the use of aphrodisiacs to protect kidney health. Recent policy actions, including a free dialysis program, are currently challenged by funding constraints.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is increasingly becoming a significant health concern in Ghana, mirroring global trends. A disturbing rise in CKD cases has been reported, particularly among the youth, many of whom face financial burdens associated with treatments such as dialysis, essential for those suffering from kidney failure.
Dr. Elliot Koranteng Tannor, a nephrologist and Senior Lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, attributes this worrying trend primarily to diabetes and hypertension. He emphasizes that non-communicable diseases are now the leading cause of death in the country, supplanting infectious diseases as the predominant health threat.
Dr. Tannor states, “It is very important that we realise now that what is killing us nowadays are not the infections anymore…. the so-called non-communicable diseases are the major killers.” He highlights that nearly 25% of adults over the age of 18 suffer from hypertension, especially in certain geographical areas.
He advises individuals to minimize salt intake to curb hypertension, saying, “So, let’s cut down our salt. Let’s not wait to get hypertension first before we cut down our salt.” Dr. Tannor also cautions young men regarding the use of aphrodisiacs, warning that such products can have dire consequences on kidney health, particularly when consumed indiscriminately.
Despite public hospitals offering dialysis at subsidized rates, there are frequent capacity issues. A significant public outcry arose in 2023 when the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital raised the price of dialysis from GH¢380 to GH¢765.42. This controversy prompted hospital authorities to reconsider their pricing strategy.
On December 1, 2024, a free dialysis treatment program was announced, backed by the National Health Insurance Authority and implemented across 40 health facilities in Ghana. However, the initiative faced financial challenges, leading to its suspension as announced by the current Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.
As Ghana observes World Kidney Day under the theme, “Are your kidneys, ok?” there is a pressing need for the government to emphasize kidney health through public awareness campaigns. These efforts should address risk factors like hypertension and diabetes, enhance early detection initiatives, and improve affordable care access, particularly through initiatives like ‘Mahama Cares.’
In summation, Ghana’s health authorities must prioritize chronic kidney disease management and prevention strategies to alleviate the increasing public health crisis. Without immediate intervention and policy support, the burden of CKD will continue to escalate, undermining the population’s health and wellbeing.
In summary, chronic kidney disease poses a growing health challenge in Ghana, particularly among the youth. Key risk factors include diabetes and hypertension, necessitating increased public awareness and preventive measures. Urgent governmental action is required to ensure affordable access to treatments and to enhance preventive strategies, particularly as the population marks World Kidney Day.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
