A kidney specialist at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital has raised alarm over the growing number of kidney disease cases among young people, urging the public to pay closer attention to their health and lifestyle choices.
The Head of the Renal Unit at the hospital, Professor Perditer Okyere, says the facility has recorded a steady rise in kidney-related cases in recent years.
Speaking during activities ahead of World Kidney Day, including a float and free health screening at the hospital on Wednesday, February 11, Professor Okyere explained that more patients are now reporting to health facilities for testing and treatment.
According to her, the situation has become more visible since government began supporting the treatment and management of kidney diseases, encouraging more people to seek medical attention.
Lifestyle Choices Driving the Trend
Professor Okyere attributed the rise largely to unhealthy lifestyle habits, particularly among young people. She pointed to the increasing misuse of unprescribed medications and other substances believed to help relieve pain, boost energy, or improve productivity.
She warned that such practices can gradually damage the kidneys and lead to serious health complications.
“If you take about 10 people, seven to eight of them may have kidney disease. That’s how serious it is. The danger is that many people walk around without knowing they have a kidney problem,” she said.
Many Cases Detected Too Late
The renal specialist explained that kidney disease progresses in five stages, but most people only notice symptoms when the condition has already advanced.
“Many people only begin to notice symptoms when the condition has progressed to the later stages, when the kidneys can no longer function properly,” she added.
Professor Okyere therefore urged the public to go for regular medical check-ups, avoid self-medication, and seek professional medical advice when experiencing unusual health symptoms.
She stressed that early detection and proper management remain the best ways to prevent severe kidney complications and improve survival rates.