The Renal Association of Ghana has voiced concerns about the escalating rate of new cases. The Association’s President, Baffour Kojo Ahenkorah, revealed that the majority of patients afflicted with these conditions are predominantly young individuals, specifically those aged 19 to 45 years.
Mr. Ahenkorah attributed the increased reporting to the introduction of the free dialysis initiative under the Health Insurance Scheme, which has enabled more individuals to receive medical attention.
Previously, many people with kidney-related conditions refrained from seeking treatment at healthcare facilities due to financial constraints.
Citing the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital as an example, he disclosed that the number of patients seeking treatment has surged from over 100 to more than 250, excluding referrals and ward patients.
Furthermore, data from other hospitals indicate a similar trend, with cases doubling compared to previous figures, he said.
Speaking in an interview on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5 FM, he stated, “The painful aspect of the issue is that when you come to Korle-Bu, you will not find a single person aged 70 with a renal problem; it is mostly between the ages of 19 and 47 years, with a few around the ages of 50 and 60.”
On the number of persons with renal problems, he stated that it is approximately 2,000.
“Before the free dialysis was announced, the number was around 1,200 as of last year. We have yet to compile the list for this year, but from the preliminary figures we have, the number has increased to approximately 2,000.”
He advised Ghanaians to avoid self-medication and always seek professional care.
Ghanaweb
