THE Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) recently hosted a National Kidney Month exhibition, aimed at raising awareness about kidney health in Guyana.

The hospital states that this initiative is part of a broader effort to educate the public on the risks and prevention of kidney disease while highlighting the available treatment options at GPHC.

The exhibition featured various booths, including the Dietary Department, which showcased healthy Guyanese meals suitable for individuals with kidney disease and other non-communicable diseases.

Additionally, Ansa McCall displayed medical products beneficial for kidney health, such as mini-dialysis machines, medical instruments, and consumables.

Representatives from the nephrology department, including nurses and doctors, were also present providing information and answering questions.

Director of Medical & Professional Services, Dr. Navindranauth Rambaram, during a brief ceremony noted the alarming rise in kidney disease cases in Guyana.

He pointed out that individuals with diabetes and hypertension are at a significantly higher risk of developing kidney disease.

Dr. Rambaram also acknowledged the efforts of the nephrology department in providing treatment and raising awareness about kidney health.
Adding to this, Dr. Baldeo Singh, Senior Nephrologist at GPHC, delivered an insightful presentation on the importance of kidney health, elaborating on the different stages of kidney disease, the risk factors associated with it, and the available treatment options at GPHC, which include medical management, dialysis, and renal transplants.

He emphasised the ongoing efforts to expand kidney services to regional hospitals and primary healthcare facilities in Regions Two, Three, Ten, and Lusignan Diabetic Centre.

While treatment options exist for advanced kidney disease, he stressed that prevention through education, regular checkups, and lifestyle management is the best approach.

Dr. Dianele Drepaul, Coordinator of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) at the Ministry of Health, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the new Universal Health Vouchers being distributed by the ministry.

She encouraged the public to take advantage of these vouchers for early screening tests for NCDs, including kidney function tests, at a subsidised cost.

The GPHC provided tips for maintaining kidney health. These tips include staying hydrated by drinking enough water which helps your kidneys to function properly; maintaining a healthy diet by eating a balanced diet with reduced salt, reduced processed foods, and reducing excessive sugar; controlling your blood pressure and blood sugar as diabetes and hypertension are the leading causes of kidney disease;
exercising regularly since physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of kidney disease; avoiding overusing painkillers as excessive use of NSAIDs and certain medications can damage kidney function and getting regular checkups particularly if you have risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. Regular kidney function tests are crucial.

The GPHC said it remains committed to spreading awareness and educating the Guyanese public on the importance of kidney health.

This year’s Kidney Day is being observed under the theme, ‘Are Your Kidneys Ok? Detect Early. Protect Kidney Health.’