Nephrologists in Davao Region reported Monday that cases of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) leading to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and requiring dialysis have increased each year.

In a press briefing, Dr. Alrick Escudero, a nephrologist and member of the Philippine Society of Nephrology Mindanao Chapter, said CKD is a global public health concern with a prevalence of 9.1 to 13.4 percent of the population worldwide.

“As of the 2022 Department of Health data, 90,000 Filipinos are on dialysis. In the Davao region, there are around 2,400 patients, with an approximate increase of 12-15 percent per year, according to records,” he added.

He said the prevalence in the Philippines is around 35.94 percent, much higher than the estimated global rates.

Escudero said there are roughly seven million Filipinos who have CKD, according to the National Kidney and Transplant Institute.

In addition to causing mortality, chronic kidney disease (CKD) also leads to significant financial costs.

Locally, 94 percent of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients undergo hemodialysis, four percent undergo peritoneal dialysis, and only two percent have received kidney transplants.

“CKD is a major problem in our country, which is very preventable by regular screening, control of blood pressure and diabetes,” Escudero said.

Dr. Rachel Pableo Esquivel, also a nephrologist, said to prevent kidney disease, the public is advised to drink a lot of water, eat vegetables and fruits, exercise regularly, and have regular check-ups.

“If you eat meat, eat lean, not fatty food. Fatty food can contribute to cardiac disease and hypertension, which will also have effects on our kidneys,” she said.

Esquivel emphasized that excessive medication use and obesity also significantly contribute to kidney disease.

“We have to be careful when taking medicines, especially pain relievers because they affect our kidneys as well,” she said. (PNA)