Doctors Raise Alarm Over Rising Kidney Disease Cases in Southeast Nigeria

Doctors Raise Alarm Over Rising Kidney Disease Cases in Southeast Nigeria

By CAVIMAGES Media 

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Medical experts in Imo State have expressed growing concern over the alarming increase in kidney disease cases across Nigeria's Southeast Region, warning that unsafe self-medication and unregulated herbal remedies are worsening an already troubling situation.

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Dr. Okechukwu, Secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Imo State, revealed that doctors across the region are now seeing kidney problems more frequently, affecting not only older adults but increasingly young people and children.


Kidney disease occurs when the kidneys become damaged and gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. The condition often develops silently with little detection, increasing the risk of serious complications.


The NMA official identified uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes as major drivers of the crisis, noting that many people remain unaware they have these conditions because they rarely undergo routine medical checks. Even diagnosed patients often discontinue treatment, putting themselves at greater risk of kidney complications.


"In developed countries, we have what we call chronic non-communicable diseases like kidney diseases, hypertension, diabetes and the rest. But because of the changing culture that has infiltrated down into this place, where our lifestyle and culture now resemble that of the developed world—what we eat, the lifestyle we keep down here—the chronic non-communicable diseases seem to be on the rise in the country and in our region," Dr. Okechukwu explained.


He attributed the trend to sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and diets high in refined foods, sugar, and fast food, which increase the risk of hypertension and diabetes that subsequently damage the kidneys.


The NMA secretary warned strongly against prolonged self-medication, particularly the unsupervised use of painkillers like diclofenac and ibuprofen, which can injure the kidneys. He also cautioned against unregulated herbal remedies sold on streets and in markets, noting that repeated exposure to potentially harmful substances places the kidneys under serious strain and contributes to kidney failure.


"When somebody is obese, for instance, their eating habits—people eat more of refined foods, sugar, fast foods. All those things will lead to increasing weight. When the weight is increased, obviously it can predispose one to having hypertension, having diabetes, and then all those when uncontrolled will result in kidney problems," he added.


The NMA official urged residents to regularly check their blood pressure and blood sugar, adhere to prescribed treatments, eat healthier meals, and remain physically active.


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