The Nairobi hospital commemorated World Kidney Day 2026 with a public awareness and community engagement event, under the theme, “Kidney Health for All – Caring for People, Protecting the Planet”, aimed at promoting early detection and prevention of kidney disease at the hospital
According to global health experts, chronic kidney disease affects an estimated 850 million people worldwide and is increasingly becoming a major public health concern. In Kenya, the prevalence of kidney-related illnesses has been rising, partly due to the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Health professionals warn that without early intervention and improved public awareness; many individuals remain undiagnosed until kidney damage has significantly progressed.
Speaking at the event, Dr Peris Koge, the Lead Nephrologist at The Nairobi Hospital, emphasised the importance of early detection and proactive care in addressing kidney disease.
“Kidney disease is often referred to as a silent condition because many people do not experience symptoms until it is already advanced. Through initiatives like these, we hope to encourage people to prioritize regular health checks and adopt healthier lifestyles that protect kidney function. Early screening and awareness are critical in preventing complications and improving long-term health outcomes,” said Dr Koge.
The Nairobi Hospital trains over 50 security officers in basic life support
As part of the hospital’s CSR initiative, they invited the community for free health checks that comprised of kidney screening, Urinalysis, Blood sugar test, Body Mass Index (BMI) and Blood pressure checks. Participants also received educational materials outlining practical steps to maintain kidney health, including maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, managing blood pressure, and seeking regular medical check-ups.
For many attendees, the screening was an important opportunity to better understand their personal health status, with several participants expressing appreciation for the initiative, noting that access to free screenings and expert medical advice helps raise awareness about kidney conditions that often go unnoticed. Community outreach programs like this play a vital role in bridging the gap between healthcare institutions and the public by encouraging preventive care and early medical intervention.
Through this initiative, The Nairobi Hospital demonstrated its commitment to holistic wellness through preventive healthcare, public education and improved access to specialised kidney care services.
