Kidney disease is a growing health concern globally and in Kenya, with thousands of patients requiring either dialysis or a kidney transplant. Despite transplants being a more permanent solution, most patients opt for dialysis.

Kidney disease occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. It is classified into two types: acute kidney injury, which is sudden and sometimes reversible, and chronic kidney disease (CKD), a progressive condition that can lead to kidney failure.

Prof. Ahmed Sokwala, a consultant nephrologist at Aga Khan University Hospital, explains, “Kidney disease is a silent disease. Unfortunately, symptoms appear late, often at advanced stages.” These symptoms may include leg swelling, frothy urine, nausea, headaches and difficulty breathing.