By Lauryn M’banga 

The Ministry of Health says over 400 people in the country are currently receiving care for kidney-related diseases at the Central Hospitals.

Samson Mndolo, the Ministry’s Secretary for Health, revealed this as the country joins the global community in marking World Kidney Day, observed every second Thursday of March.

Mndolo emphasized that the prevalence of kidney disease is rising and is projected to become the fifth leading cause of death worldwide by 2040.

“Despite the increasing burden, kidney disease is preventable, and the progression to chronic kidney disease can be delayed with timely access to basic diagnostics, early treatment, lifestyle changes, and nutritional interventions,” Mndolo explained.

This year’s World Kidney Day, celebrated on March 13, carries the theme ‘Are Your Kidneys OK? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health,’ highlighting the critical importance of early detection and maintaining kidney health.