ABBOTTABAD: The Pakistan Kidney Center organized a seminar and rally in observance of World Kidney Day, aiming to raise awareness about kidney diseases.
Director Operations Shoaib Iqbal, accompanied by doctors, students from various schools, and teachers, participated in the event. Renowned kidney disease expert, Dr. Anwar Shahzad, highlighted the concerning trend of kidney diseases affecting children as young as eight years old.
Dr. Shahzad emphasized the vital role of kidneys in maintaining fluid balance and cautioned against the consumption of harmful substances. He recommended a daily intake of at least 10 glasses of water, adjusted based on individual activity levels, to ensure proper hydration.
Underlining the severe consequences of kidney failure, Dr. Shahzad stressed the importance of timely medical intervention, including dialysis, which may be necessary twice a week in severe cases. He expressed concern over the widespread prevalence of kidney diseases due to inadequate water intake and warned about the high costs associated with monthly cleaning treatments.
To enhance awareness, Dr. Shahzad announced plans for a school-level campaign led by the Pakistan Kidney Center. He denounced the consumption of soft drinks and fish crackers due to their detrimental effects on kidney health and cautioned against smoking and the use of over-the-counter medications without medical supervision.
Highlighting the significance of physical activity, he reiterated the importance of maintaining overall health.
The seminar concluded with an interactive Q&A session addressing students’ queries, followed by a guided tour of the hospital’s facilities, including the Research Center and Dialysis Unit. Students also led a rally to raise community awareness, displaying placards and banners advocating for kidney disease awareness.
