The Abia State Post Transplant Persons Association of Nigeria (ASPTPAN) has called for synergy between government, and stakeholders to help make life-saving medications more accessible and affordable for Nigerians.
The association urged governments at all levels to support post-transplant patients in procuring and using essential medications to ensure a good quality of life.
This appeal was made in a statement issued in Umuahia on Friday by the association’s Secretary, Dr Clement Ifenkoronye.
Ifenkoronye stated that ASPTPAN, an association of post-transplant patients living in Abia, marked World Kidney Day on March 13.
According to the body, its appeal is part of the awareness campaign including a radio programme it sponsored to educate the public on kidney health.
He noted that ASPTPAN President, Prof. Remy Mejeha, emphasised the importance of maintaining kidney health and outlined best practices to keep the kidneys functioning optimally.
The group advised the public to among other healthy habits, drink adequate amounts of water, urinate promptly, avoid over-the-counter medications, undergo regular check-ups with a physician.
“Many individuals have undergone kidney transplants, which is the definitive treatment for End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), a condition where the kidneys can no longer function effectively.
“These patients require lifelong medications to maintain kidney function and prevent organ rejection.”
It further highlighted the high cost of these medications, which puts transplant patients at risk.
“With the current sharp rise in the dollar-to-naira exchange rate, the cost of these essential drugs has skyrocketed.
“Many post-transplant patients are battling kidney rejection and even death due to their inability to afford medications,” the statement said.
The theme for this year’s World Kidney Day is, “Are you ok? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health.”
