To mark today’s World Kidney Day, CARPHA is urging the public to be proactive with kidney screening, as this is an important part of preventing the increase of kidney disease in the region.

Executive Director Dr. Lisa Indar said it remains as  significant concern for the region, noting that the Americas had the highest death rate due to kidney disease.

She noted that two CARPHA member states ranked in the top 10 list of countries in the region with the highest death rate due to kidney disease while nine member states ranked in the top 20.

Dr Indar added that the three main risk factors for kidney diseases are obesity (53.2 %), hypertension (23%) and diabetes (11.9%).

CARPHA is advocating for policies at the primary care level, as early detection of kidney disease is essential for preventing complications and improving quality of life in the Region.