LGH holds awareness walk on World Kidney Day

LAHORE, Mar 14 (APP): The Lahore General Hospital on Saturday organised an awareness walk organized on the occasion of  World Kidney Day.
On the occasion, Principal Amir-ud-Din Medical College (AMC) and Lahore General Hospital (LGH) Professor Dr. Farooq Afzal has said that kidneys serve as nature’s vital filtration system, maintaining human health by purifying blood from waste products, while adulterated food, unbalanced diets, sedentary lifestyles and environmental pollution have posed serious risks to kidney health.
Prof Farooq Afzal said that although kidney disease is increasing among men, women consistently lead the way in kidney donations. He urged clinicians and the media to play a proactive role in educating the public about preventive measures to safeguard the younger generation.
He emphasized that healthy kidneys are the foundation of a healthy society and highlighted this year’s global theme, “Kidney Health For All: Caring for People, Protecting the Planet.” He said that clean drinking water, a balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding unnecessary medications are essential for protecting kidney health.
Professor of Nephrology at LGH Dr Abad-ur-Rehman described chronic kidney disease (CKD) as a “silent killer” that often shows no symptoms in its early stages. He advised that patients suffering from diabetes and hypertension should undergo regular kidney function tests to prevent complications and the need for dialysis.
He further said that reducing salt intake, maintaining physical activity and quitting smoking are important for kidney health. He warned that symptoms such as swelling of the face and feet in the morning, loss of appetite, foamy urine and breathing difficulties should not be ignored.
The walk concluded with a media briefing in which Prof. Farooq Afzal warned the public against quacks and unauthorized practitioners, stating that inappropriate medications can cause irreversible kidney damage. He urged people to take their health seriously and adopt preventive measures.
The awareness walk witnessed a large turnout, including Prof. Shandana Tariq, Prof. Faiza Athar, Prof. Amna Ahsan Cheema, Dr. Saira Zeeshan, Dr. Yasir Hussain, Dr. Roshina Anjum, Dr. Sajid, Dr. Jaffar Hussain, Dr. Abdul Aziz, Dr. Muhammad Maqsood and Nursing Superintendent Saima Fateh, along with a large number of senior doctors, nurses and paramedical staff.
Participants carried banners and placards highlighting the importance of kidney health, hygiene and environmental protection, while the principal led the procession to reinforce the message of early diagnosis and preventive care.