As the world observed World Kidney Day yesterday, Lenmed Ethekwini Hospital and Heart Centre shone a spotlight on congenital kidney disease, a life-altering condition that affects countless of South Africans.
With a dedicated team of specialists and state-of-the-art technology, the hospital has positioned itself at the forefront of diagnosing, managing, and treating these conditions, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care.
Niresh Bechan, CEO of Lenmed Ethekwini Hospital and Heart Centre, highlighted the importance of raising awareness about congenital kidney diseases which often go undiagnosed until they have significantly progressed.
“Early detection is crucial,” Bechan said.
Understanding Congenital Kidney Diseases
Vascular Surgeon Dr Sindiswa Ntloku has seen first hand the impact of kidney disease on her patient’s lives.
“Congenital kidney diseases are structural or functional abnormalities of the kidney present from birth, which can lead to chronic kidney disease if not managed promptly,” she said.
According to recent statistics, a significant number of children in South Africa suffer from these conditions, with many cases going undetected due to a lack of awareness and access to specialised care.
“Many people mistakenly believe that kidney diseases only affect adults or result solely from lifestyle factors like diabetes or hypertension,” she explained.
“However, congenital kidney diseases can manifest in newborns and children, and without timely intervention, these young patients face a lifetime of complications,” she warned.
The hospital’s Nephrology Department has been instrumental in bridging the gap between diagnosis and treatment.
Equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, including renal ultrasounds and genetic testing, Lenmed Ethekwini Hospital ensures that even the youngest patients receive accurate and timely diagnoses.
Expertise That Makes a Difference
At the heart of Lenmed Ethekwini Hospital’s success in managing congenital kidney diseases is its team of specialised nephrologists and urologists, who work collaboratively to provide patient-centric care.
This multidisciplinary approach allows for comprehensive treatment plans that address both the immediate symptoms and long-term management of the disease.
According to Bechan, having specialists who understand the intricacies of congenital kidney diseases is vital,” Bechan noted.
In addition to its diagnostic capabilities, Lenmed Ethekwini Hospital offers a range of treatment options for congenital kidney diseases, from minimally invasive surgeries to comprehensive dialysis services. The hospital’s renal unit is equipped with cutting-edge technology that allows for precise and effective treatment, minimising the need for multiple interventions.
The Transplant Division meanwhile has a committed team to ensure Renal Transplants are completed efficiently and that the comfort of donor and recipient are given top priority
From a vascular surgery perspective, Dr Ntloku explained that kidney health is deeply intertwined with cardiovascular health. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) significantly increases the risk of vascular complications, including hypertension, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and life-threatening cardiovascular events such as strokes and heart attacks.
“Many of my patients with vascular conditions also suffer from kidney disease, as both are linked to diabetes, hypertension, and lifestyle factors,” she added.
Ntloku said that one of the most pressing concerns is that kidney disease often develops silently.
“People may not experience symptoms until significant kidney function is lost. This is why early detection is key. Simple tests, such as checking blood pressure, urine protein levels, and kidney function markers like creatinine, can help identify problems early, allowing for timely intervention.
“I strongly urge the community to take proactive steps in protecting their kidney health. This includes staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet low in salt and processed foods, exercising regularly, controlling blood sugar levels in diabetic patients, and avoiding smoking. Those with a family history of kidney disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure should undergo regular check-ups to catch potential problems early,” she added.
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