Bungoma Marks World Kidney Day as Residents Urged to Go for Screening
The event was held at Bungoma County Referral Hospital where health workers offered free medical screening services to residents. The services included blood pressure checks, body mass index (BMI) assessments, blood sugar testing, and nutrition counseling.
Staff from the hospital’s Renal Unit organized a series of awareness activities to educate residents on the importance of kidney health while encouraging them to undergo regular medical check-ups.
Speaking during the event, Bungoma County Referral Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr. Simon Kisaka emphasized the importance of early detection in the fight against kidney disease.
“Kidney disease often develops silently and many people may not realize they are affected until the condition has progressed. That is why awareness and early detection are very important,” said Dr. Kisaka.
He noted that the hospital continues to receive many patients suffering from kidney-related complications, most of which are linked to preventable conditions.
“At Bungoma County Referral Hospital, we continue to see patients presenting with kidney-related conditions, many of which are linked to preventable risk factors such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, poor diet, and delayed health-seeking behavior,” he added.
Dr. Kisaka stressed that routine health check-ups can help identify risks early, allowing for timely medical intervention before complications develop.
He further urged residents to maintain healthy habits such as staying hydrated, eating balanced diets, avoiding misuse of medication, and seeking medical attention whenever they notice unusual symptoms.
“Protecting our kidneys is protecting our lives. Let us all take responsibility for our health today and every day,” he said.
According to global health statistics, an estimated 788 million people worldwide are affected by kidney disease, with a mortality rate of about 14.2 percent. Many deaths are associated with complications such as cardiac arrest, diabetes, obesity, and hypertension.
Hesborn Kisiero, the Head Nurse at the Renal Unit of Bungoma County Referral Hospital, noted that many patients face significant challenges in accessing kidney care services.
“These include limited access to dialysis and transplant services, delayed diagnosis, shortages of specialized care, and a limited number of nephrologists,” Kisiero said.
Health experts also highlighted common symptoms of kidney disease, including nausea, muscle cramps, swelling of the feet, fatigue, and changes in urine color and output.
The awareness campaign aimed to empower residents with knowledge and encourage them to take preventive measures to protect their kidney health.
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