The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) fraternity today, joined the rest of the world in marking World Kidney Day, at the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital (DFMH).
World Kidney Day is celebrated annually with an aim of creating awareness and highlighting the importance of kidney health through early detection, prevention and the management of kidney disease encouraging lifestyle changes, regular check-ups and education to reduce the burden of kidney disease.
The day themed ‘Are your kidneys ok? Detect early, Protect Kidney Health’, featured a various activities including, a procession march, free kidney screening, educational sessions by KDF health professionals and an educational skit by the Defence College of Health Sciences (DCHS) all aimed at raising awareness of kidney disease whose cases are on the rise.
In his remarks, Commandant DFMH, Brigadier John Khaoya highlighted the need of raising awareness of kidney disease which is on an alarming rise, emphasizing on early detection and treatment. He further highlighted the hospital’s capability in carrying out effective dialysis.
He further added that as the cases of kidney disease increase KDF continues to train its medics to handle the increasing number of kidney patients. The Commandant further highlighted that DFMH is looking to establish a fully-fledged renal unit equipped to perform kidney transplants.
On behalf of the Chairperson of the Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK), Mrs Grace Kahariri, the head of Partnership and Collaboration, Mrs Grace Amogola echoed the Commandants’ sentiments urging everyone to undergo early kidney screening and adhere to healthy lifestyle practices.
Mrs. Amogola added that MWAK is empowering families through its health pillar by urging them to prioritise their well-being and also providing full-time psychosocial services with in-house counsellors.
She further stated that the association is looking to link affected members undergoing dialysis or kidney transplants with support groups to help them cope with the challenges that come with the disease.
The day also featured testimonials from KDF renal patients, who shared their experiences of battling kidney disease, offering encouragement and inspiring hope to others in their fight.
Present during the event DFMH medical staff, members of MWAK, senior officers, officers, Service members and KDF families.
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