ILOILO City – Kidney diseases are emerging as a significant public health threat in Western Visayas, with the Department of Health (DOH) Region 6 warning of a growing number of cases affecting adults aged 20 and above.
Citing the 2024 Field Health Services Information System (FHSIS) Morbidity Report, Dr. Aimee Marie Gayomali, Medical Officer IV and head of DOH-6’s Integrated Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Program, revealed that the region has logged hundreds of kidney-related illnesses—highlighting what could be an escalating silent health threat.
The kidneys—two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine — play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. They filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood, regulate blood pressure, balance electrolytes, and produce hormones that control red blood cell production and bone health. When the kidneys become impaired, these essential functions are disrupted, leading to potentially life-threatening complications.
General kidney diseases account for the highest burden with 510 recorded cases—262 in males and 248 in females.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD), kidney stones, renal failure, and other forms of kidney dysfunction were also noted, cutting across all genders and age groups.
Among the notable data:
* Kidney Calculus (kidney stones and related conditions) – 26 cases (16 female, 10 male)
* Chronic Kidney Disease – 27 cases (15 female, 12 male)
* Acute Renal Failure – 16 cases (10 male, 6 female)
* Cystic Kidney Disease – 6 cases (3 males, 3 females)
* Congenital Single Renal Cyst – 2 cases (both female)
* Disorder of Kidney and Ureter (Unspecified) – 5 (4 male, 1 female)
Dr. Gayomali emphasized that while the region’s Level 3 healthcare facilities — such as Western Visayas Medical Center in Iloilo City and Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital in Bacolod City — are equipped to manage such diseases, prevention remains the best line of defense.
“Kidney diseases are often linked to underlying conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. A healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, and regular medical screenings can dramatically reduce the risk,” Gayomali said.
Cystic Kidney Disease, a condition characterized by the formation of cysts on the kidneys.
Congenital Single Renal Cysts are abnormal growths on the kidneys present at birth.
Acute Renal Failure is the sudden loss of kidney function.
Chronic Kidney Disease is a long-term condition often linked to other health factors such as diabetes and hypertension.
Kidney Calculus includes various types of kidney stones.
Gayomali advised the public to:
* Control blood pressure and blood sugar. (Hypertension can damage kidney tissues. Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney disease.)
* Maintain a healthy weight and limit salt intake. (Overweight and obesity increase the risk of kidney disease. Excessive salt can elevate blood.)
* Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. (These accelerate kidney damage.)
* Engage in regular physical activity
* Undergo annual kidney function tests, especially for high-risk individuals
* Balanced nutrition (Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports overall kidney function.)
* Be cautious with medications. (Overuse of pain relievers, especially nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can impair kidney function. Use medications as directed and consult healthcare providers when necessary.)
The DOH is also working to revive its kidney transplant program in Iloilo City, which was stalled during the pandemic.
Future plans include the promotion of organ donation and orientations on transplantation in time for National Kidney Month in June 2025.
Kidney health took center stage during World Kidney Day on March 13, and as cases continue to rise, health officials are pushing for urgent, community-wide changes in lifestyle and awareness.
“Prevention starts at home and in daily habits,” Gayomali said. “Let’s not wait until our kidneys fail to act.”/PN
