Assessing Kenya’s Kidney Transplant Challenges Amidst Dialysis Demand

Kenya sees a low kidney transplant rate of 2.8% amid a burgeoning dialysis population. Factors include a shortage of donor organs, patient health complications, and preferences for dialysis. Recommendations for prevention and donor compatibility criteria are highlighted.

In Kenya, a reported 708 kidney transplants were conducted, according to the Kenya Renal Association (KRA), with only 160 in 2021. This results in a transplant conversion rate of 2.8 percent, significantly lower than the approximately 10 percent observed globally. A considerable number of kidney patients seek transplants abroad, often discovering post-factum that local options may have been more beneficial.

The disparity in transplant rates arises mainly from a scarcity of available donor organs. Additionally, some patients may be deemed too unhealthy for a transplant, while others may prefer dialysis as a treatment option. For certain demographics, particularly older adults, the thought of undergoing a transplant and the potential lifelong regimen of immunosuppressant drugs for organ rejection may deter them from pursuing surgery.

Donor eligibility typically ranges from ages 18 to 65, and compatibility between donors and recipients, specifically in terms of blood groups, is paramount. Preventative measures to avoid kidney disease, as recommended by the World Health Organization, include maintaining an active lifestyle, managing blood sugar and blood pressure levels, consuming a healthy diet, and abstaining from the overuse of certain medications and smoking.

The low rate of kidney transplants in Kenya, at 2.8 percent compared to the global average, underscores significant challenges, including organ shortage and patient health conditions. While many seek alternatives abroad, local options may often be overlooked. By adhering to preventative health measures suggested by experts, the incidence of kidney disease can potentially be reduced, leading to a higher number of viable transplant candidates in the future.

Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke