LASUTH screens 500 Lagosians for kidney disease - early detection

The Lagos State University Teaching Hospital in Ikeja, in partnership with the Nigerian Association of Nephrology, has conducted kidney disease screenings for over 500 residents of Lagos.

Nephrologists at this tertiary institution highlighted the critical role of regular screenings and early detection in alleviating the impact of kidney diseases within the nation.

The screening initiative, held in the Ikeja region, involved assessments for hypertension and diabetes, along with blood and urine tests to further evaluate potential kidney disease.

This kidney screening event was organized in honor of the 2025 World Kidney Day, which is observed annually on the second Thursday of March.

The World Health Organization has identified kidney disease as an escalating global health concern, affecting millions worldwide.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, chronic kidney disease impacts 10 percent of the global population, with countless individuals succumbing each year due to inadequate access to affordable treatment.

While chronic kidney disease (CKD) is commonly found among the elderly, nephrologists in Nigeria report a significant prevalence of the condition among younger individuals as well.

Risk factors for the disease include diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, family history, obesity, the misuse of painkillers and herbal remedies, age, and glomerulonephritis, a condition that impairs the kidneys' ability to filter waste from the body.

In an interview with our correspondent during the screening, Dr. Theophillus Umeizudike, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for the LASUTH kidney screening initiative, expressed that the event is part of a larger strategy to enhance kidney health in Lagos State.

“We aim to raise awareness about kidney disease and improve healthcare access for those affected by it,” he stated.

He stated, "We are also promoting policies that enhance kidney health, including subsidized dialysis and kidney transplantation."

However, the professor expressed concern over the significant shortage of nephrologists in the nation.

"We are collaborating with kidney communities globally to observe World Kidney Day, an annual event held on the second Thursday of March. Tomorrow marks World Kidney Day, but we can celebrate it at any time around that date," he clarified.

Professor Awobusuyi emphasized that the primary aim of World Kidney Day is to raise awareness about kidney diseases, which are becoming increasingly prevalent.

"The main goal of World Kidney Day is to inform the public about kidney diseases, which are quite common and have serious health implications for those affected. When identified early, many conditions are treatable. However, if left undetected, they can worsen and become costly to manage, particularly when patients require dialysis or kidney transplantation," he explained.

The physician underscored the necessity for government support to increase the number of renal care professionals.

"The interventions we provide now are relatively inexpensive, but if we identify a patient at a later stage, they may require a transplant. The minimum cost for such surgery is approximately 25 million Naira. This is why we are focused on raising awareness and encouraging early testing for kidney disease," he remarked.

Additionally, Dr. Amisu Muhmini, a consultant nephrologist and member of the LASUTH kidney screening committee, noted that the initiative was part of the hospital's efforts to honor World Kidney Day.

Muhmini pointed out that kidney disease is a prevalent condition that can be effectively treated if caught early.

He highlighted that the disease often progresses without noticeable symptoms, and by the time they manifest, it may be too late for effective intervention.

He observed that the disease frequently advances without noticeable symptoms, and by the time they manifest, it may be too late for effective intervention.

“The primary aim of this initiative is to raise awareness about kidney disease and to facilitate early detection.

“We seek to empower individuals to take charge of their health, recognizing that while the government, hospitals, and healthcare providers play a role, personal responsibility is essential,” he stated.

Muhmini emphasized that early detection is vital in halting the progression of kidney disease.

He elaborated that straightforward assessments, such as monitoring blood pressure, conducting blood glucose tests, and performing urine analyses, can help identify those at risk.

He further remarked, “Our efforts extend beyond screening for kidney disease; we are also assessing for hypertension and diabetes, which are significant risk factors for kidney issues.

“By identifying these conditions early, we can avert the onset of kidney disease.”