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The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing kidney disease in Ghana, revealing that more than 6,000 patients have benefited from support under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
The announcement was made during a public health forum in Accra held to mark World Kidney Month, where stakeholders drew attention to the rising prevalence of kidney-related conditions and the urgent need for prevention, early diagnosis, and improved treatment access.
Medical professionals at the event stressed that many kidney diseases are preventable and often linked to lifestyle habits. Dr Abigail Derkyi-Kwarteng encouraged the public to adopt healthier behaviours such as drinking more water, limiting alcohol intake, avoiding unregulated herbal products, and undergoing regular medical check-ups.
Sharing patient perspectives, Baffour Kwadwo Ahenkorah highlighted the high cost and limited availability of dialysis services, calling for increased private sector investment to expand access.
Meanwhile, Dr Papa Nii Maale-Adsei explained that dialysis is typically required at the advanced stage of kidney failure, with transplantation being the only long-term solution. He emphasised preventive measures such as regular exercise and reducing processed food intake.
The forum, organised by NHIA’s Corporate Affairs Directorate, also featured a podcast session hosted by Shaniece Palm, alongside interactive discussions and on-site health screenings aimed at promoting early detection.
NHIA officials, including Angela Asiedu and Faustina Derry, underscored the importance of prevention and regular screening, noting that early diagnosis remains key to reducing complications.
The event reinforced NHIA’s ongoing efforts to expand access to affordable healthcare while promoting awareness, prevention, and timely treatment of kidney disease.
Source: citinews
