By Tina Amanda
A Consultant Physician and Nephrologist, Dr. Tams Isaac Tamunobelema, who heads the Renal Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), has identified hypertension and HIV as major causes of kidney disease.
He urged the public to prioritize kidney health through early detection and prevention.
Speaking in an interview with our Correspondent to mark World Kidney Day, Dr. Tamunobelema warned against the use of herbal remedies, popularly known as ‘Agbo’, and bleaching creams containing mercury, stating that they can lead to kidney disease.
“The use of herbal remedies and bleaching creams, particularly those containing mercury, significantly increases the risk of kidney disease. People should avoid them to safeguard their health.”
Dr. Tamunobelema explained that World Kidney Day, observed annually on the second Thursday of March, is an initiative by the International Society of Nephrologists to educate the public on kidney health.
He revealed that the theme for the 2025 World Kidney Day is: “Are Your Kidneys Okay? Early Detection and Preventing Kidney Disease.”
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According to him, the number of kidney disease cases is rising alarmingly, with many patients requiring dialysis or kidney transplants.
“Treatment involves dialysis and transplants, which are expensive and not accessible to everyone. That is why prevention and early detection are crucial.”
To mark this year’s awareness campaign, UPTH’s Renal Unit has planned a free kidney screening and health talk at Emmanuel Anglican Church, Rumuokoro, targeting church members and the surrounding community.
“We will conduct screenings for early detection of kidney disease and its risk factors, including diabetes and hypertension. Early diagnosis enables better management and can prevent complications.”
He acknowledged government’s efforts in reducing the cost of dialysis at ten designated centers by 50 percent, as well as initiatives to improve access to kidney transplants.
“The government can do more by implementing policies that facilitate kidney transplants and organ donations. Ethical guidelines on kidney donations are being developed in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigerian Society of Nephrologists.”
He further emphasized that while hypertension may sometimes be hereditary, lifestyle choices such as avoiding harmful skin lightening creams and unregulated herbal mixtures can help prevent kidney disease.
“A lot of people do not know that the use of herbal remedies, bleaching cream(Mercury containing creams) causes kidney problems.
“You may not be able to control family history, but you can control what you apply on your skin and what you consume. Avoid bleaching creams with mercury and herbal remedies that can harm your kidneys.”
