KUTRRH Launches 20 Dialysis Machines
Kidney diseases can encompass a wide range of conditions including chronic kidney disease (CKD), acute kidney injury (AKI), kidney stones, infections, and more. This situation is not different in our country, Kenya. Statistics from the Kenya Renal Association estimate that 4 million Kenyans are suffering from kidney disease and by the year 2030, this number will rise to 4.8 million.
It is therefore of paramount importance that all efforts be put in place to mitigate renal challenges.Aware of its role in furthering Universal Health Care, KUTRRH on 25th August 2023 launched 20 dialysis machines which were purchased by the Government of Kenya. The machines play a pivotal role in the treatment process by performing the tasks that healthy kidneys undertake. The 20 new cutting-edge machines boost the existing 15. Dialysis machines have revolutionized renal care, enabling countless patients to lead relatively normal lives while their kidneys struggle to function effectively.
There are two main types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis is the most common method and involves the use of a dialysis machine that filters the patient’s blood through a specialized filter,known as a dialyzer, to remove waste products and excess fluids. Peritoneal dialysis, on the other hand, relies on the body’s own peritoneal membrane to filter blood inside the body, often utilizing specialized fluid called dialysate.Dialysis helps prevent the dangerous accumulation of waste products, electrolyte imbalances, and fluid overload,which if left untreated, could lead to life-threatening complications.
The Renal department at KUTRRH operates 24 hours and is manned by highly skilled Renal Specialists. At KUTRRH not only will the machines be used by patients but also by the trainees who are undergoing training at the hospital to gain a better understanding.Speaking during the launch ceremony, KUTRRH’s CEO Ahmed Dagane noted that kidney diseases have become a global health concern, with various factors including increase in non-communicable diseases, environmental factors, dynamic changes in our lifestyle, the aging population, genetic factors among other factors contributing to their increasing prevalence.While dialysis significantly improves the quality of life for those with kidney challenges, it is not a cure.
Kidney transplantation remains the most effective long-term treatment for endstage renal disease, offering patients the opportunity to regain near-normal kidney function. Speaking during the launch, the Chairperson of KUTRRH’s Board of Directors, Prof. Olive Mugenda announced that the hospital is in the process of launching a comprehensive kidney transplant program. The program which is being steered by KUTRRH’s nephrologists led by Dr. Edward Njogu will ensure that Kenyans will no longer have to travel outside the country to seek for these services. Prof. Mugenda noted that the dialysis sessions offered at KUTRRH are fully covered by NHIF.
The partnership with NHIF will ensure that services are rendered to all Kenyans without adding extra charges. While challenges persist, ongoing research and technological advancements hold the promise of improving renal treatment, ultimately enhancing the lives of countless patients worldwide.
Prof. Olive Mugenda emphasized that the Board of Directors is passionate about training of staff. She announced that the Board will support the training of the medics in renal transplants and
make KUTRRH a Centre of Excellence in renal transplants.
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