Residents of Minna, Niger State, have been urged to adopt healthy lifestyles and seek professional medical advice to prevent kidney-related diseases.
Dr. Nathaniel Omon Iseghohimhen of Standard Hospital, Minna, made the call in an interview with ASHENEWS to mark 2026 World Kidney Day.
He explained the focus of the campaign as a global health awareness initiative aimed at drawing attention to the importance of the kidneys and reducing the frequency and impact of kidney disease and its associated health problems worldwide.
According to him, kidney disease can be triggered by several factors, many of which are preventable if individuals pay closer attention to their health and lifestyle.
“Very little things can actually prevent some of the trigger factors of kidney disease. Some of them are very common conditions such as hypertension and diabetes,” he stated.
The doctor noted that people living with high blood pressure and high blood sugar are particularly at risk of developing kidney complications if the conditions are not properly managed.
He further explained that certain autoimmune diseases may also affect the kidneys, although such cases are beyond the direct control of patients because they occur when the body’s immune system begins to attack its own organs.
Iseghohimhen also warned against the widespread practice of self-medication, especially the use of strong pain-relief drugs without proper medical supervision.
“Some medications put people at risk of developing kidney problems. When they experience pain, many people simply go to a pharmacy or chemist and ask for something very strong.”
“All those selling drugs may only focus on relieving the pain immediately without considering the long-term effect on the kidneys,” he added.
The physician stressed that dehydration is another major factor that contributes to kidney problems, particularly in hot environments where the body loses large amounts of fluid.
“We live in a very hot environment and a lot of people do not take adequate water. The kidneys need a whole lot of water to survive,” he explained.
He expressed deep concern over the use of certain cosmetic products, including skin-lightening creams and soaps, warning that they may contain substances capable of damaging the kidneys over time.
According to him, family history and congenital conditions can also increase the likelihood of kidney disease, noting that some individuals are born with underlying kidney defects that may manifest later in life.
“Some people may have a family history of kidney problems and that alone places them at risk. In some cases, children are even born with kidney-related conditions that may affect them as they grow,” he expounded.
Speaking on preventive measures, Iseghohimhen advised residents to avoid abusing medications and instead seek proper medical attention whenever they experience symptoms.
“When you have a complaint, you should see a doctor. If you cannot see a doctor immediately, see a licensed pharmacist or a registered nurse. These professionals understand their scope of practice and will refer you to a doctor when necessary,” he advised.
Warning residents to stay away from unqualified drug vendors, he described them as individuals who may not consider the long-term impact of drugs on vital organs.
The doctor also encouraged routine medical checks to enable early detection of potential health challenges.
“People should go for regular hospital checks. Check your blood pressure and your sugar level. If problems are noticed early, necessary actions can be taken to prevent further damage,” he warned.
Drawing the attention of general public on lifestyle choices, the medical practitioner urged the public to maintain healthy habits, including drinking adequate water and avoiding harmful substances.
“Drink water and your skin will come out fine. You don’t have to rely on cosmetic products to change your skin,” he charged.
He further advised residents to avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and the use of hard drugs, describing them as practices that could worsen kidney health.
Iseghohimhen recommended that individuals living in hot climates ensure adequate hydration, adding that adults should consume sufficient water daily.
“Especially in hot environments, people should drink plenty of water. A minimum of about four litres of water daily is advisable,” he said.
This year’s World Kidney Day is being observed under the theme “Kidney Health for All: Caring for People, Protecting the Planet.”
The campaign seeks to promote equitable access to kidney care and encourage preventive measures that support healthier communities.
