Over 9,000 Nigerians Diagnosed with Kidney Disease Monthly, Says Surgeon

Dr. Ugochukwu Charles Ugwuanyi, the CEO of Wellington Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in Abuja, has issued a warning that over 9,000 new cases of end-stage kidney failure are diagnosed in Nigeria every month. This alarming figure has been rising and is on the verge of becoming an epidemic. The hospital has been operational for 15 years, treating 9,450 patients and performing 4,657 surgeries.

Hypertension and diabetes are identified as the primary risk factors for kidney failure, particularly among young people. Ugwuanyi expressed concern over poor health-seeking behavior in Nigeria, where many individuals do not regularly monitor their blood pressure and blood sugar levels. He attributed the surge in kidney failure cases to changing lifestyles, including excessive alcohol consumption, poor sleep habits, consumption of fast food, and the indiscriminate use of medications.

Ugwuanyi emphasized the importance of having a dialysis machine connected to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), as ICU care is incomplete without a renal dialysis unit. Wellington Hospital has a dialysis unit attached to its ICU, ensuring comprehensive care for patients with kidney failure.

The hospital's 15-year history includes treating a wide range of neurological and neurosurgical cases, with brain operations making up 46% of the procedures and spine operations accounting for 51%. Other specialties, such as peripheral nerve surgery, orthopedics, plastic surgery, gynecology, and prostate and kidney surgeries, contribute minimally to the hospital's operations.

Ugwuanyi urged Nigerians to prioritize their health and seek appropriate medical treatment, highlighting that Wellington Hospital is well-equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities comparable to those found worldwide. The hospital collaborates with various specialties and offers counseling services, making it a comprehensive healthcare facility that addresses all failing organs.