Experts call for early screening of kidney diseases in children

With government efforts to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases, health workers have urged the public to engage in early screening practices for kidney diseases in children. Officials from the University of Rwanda, African Healthcare Network, Lancet Laboratories and Ministry of Health made the remarks, yesterday, during a screening exercise to mark World Kidney Day at the University of Rwanda’s College of Medicine and Health Science. The event was organised under the theme, “Kidney Diseases and Children, Act early to prevent it.” Paul Munyiginya, the acting head of department of nursing and midwifery at the College of Medicine and Health Science, said kidney diseases are no longer limited to adults and children too need screening. “Like other non-communicable diseases, kidney diseases used to affect the elderly only, but that has since changed. Interventions are necessary to address the problem in children as well,” said Munyiginya. He added that through regular consultation and good lifestyle habits most childhood kidney abnormalities could be prevented. “It is important that individuals seek regular consultations at early stage but such practices should be supplemented by low consumption of fats and balanced diets,” he added. Dr Joseph Ntarindwa, a urologist at Africa Healthcare Network, said the majority of cases in children also arise from existing illnesses, which cause permanent damage. “Malaria is one of the main risk factors that can lead to kidney damage. Other factors include sore throat complications and skin sepsis. Although they may heal on treatment, the kidney disease may not,” said Dr Ntarindwa. Medical students at College of Medicine and Health Sciences take blood pressure measurement of people at the kidney screening yesterday. (Doreen Umutesi) The urologist reiterated the need for continuous medical check-up as a necessity in early identification of hereditary risk factors. “Some kidney conditions are genetic. For example, when cysts are present, they cause enlargement of the kidneys,” he said. During the event, about 600 people received free testing and consultation on kidney problems. Innocent Mbarushimana, a lab technologist at Lancet Laboratories, said specific tests are important when identifying kidney malfunctions. “We have taken urine and blood samples from people to identify the composition. In urine, we carried out analyses on protein and glucose while in blood we identified the glucose levels. Any anomaly in composition can provide a clue to identifying kidney infections,” he said. Nicas Ntagwabira, a participant, said the test results gave him a chance to know his kidney conditions. “I have engaged in consultations with the doctors and nurses. At least I am now aware of the various risk factors,” he said. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

News

Experts call for early screening of kidney diseases in children