For kidney failure patients, hope springs local in Batangas
MANILA, Philippines — As World Kidney Day was observed for the 20th year across the globe, this time last March 12, the Renal and Transplant Institute (RTI) in Batangas said patients diagnosed with Stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD) and their families can still find hope for health, a longer life and better quality of life despite the emotional roller-coaster ride.
If left untreated, this worst form of kidney failure leads to life-threatening complications and death. And for many decades, patients relied solely on dialysis treatment to survive.
READ: More young Filipinos getting chronic kidney disease — and they learn too late
The Philippine Society of Nephrology (PSN) says that while CKD can be managed, there is no complete cure through medications.
Citing data from the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, the non-profit PSN noted that one Filipino develops chronic renal failure every hour. This translates to about 120 Filipinos per million population every year.
PSN is a member of the International Society of Nephorology which, along with the International Federation of Kidney Foundations – World Kidney Alliance, is behind the World Kidney Day initiative.
Global advocacy
Like PSN, the Belgium-based initiative advocates awareness about the CKD prevention. But it also encourages transplantation as a “best-outcome option” for kidney failure. At the same time, it promotes the act of organ donation as a life-saving act.
According to the RTI at Mary Mediatrix Medical Center in Lipa City, advances in medical science have made kidney transplantation safer, more effective and a preferred long-term treatment option for eligible patients.
Nathaniel Agoncillo, senior nephrologist at the Mary Mediatrix’s RTI, the burden of dialysis on patient’s health, patience, time and even finances can be quite difficult.
This could involve dialysis sessions thrice a week, maintaining a strict diet with many foods not allowed, and an array of the medications to be taken every day.
READ: Early prevention of kidney disease
Then, there is also the constant risk of complications and illnesses that a patient undergoing dialysis faces.
“Essentially, being on dialysis places greater constraints and limitations on a patient. In contrast, a patient who’s had a kidney transplantation has greater freedom and more energy and mobility for enjoying activities, plus more time with loved ones. The quality of life is better,” Agoncillo said.
The doctor added that for many with end-stage renal disease or irreversible kidney failure, a kidney transplantation offers the best chance for health and longevity.
Not for all patients
However, not all kidney patients are qualified or eligible for a kidney transplant. To be considered a transplant candidate, a patient typically must have end-stage kidney disease (Stage 5 CKD) with severely reduced kidney function; be in good overall physical and mental health; show strong commitment and capacity to manage transplant care; and have no untreated active infections and serious cancer.
Agoncillo said the RTI conducts thorough evaluations, including blood and tissue typing, imaging, cardiac assessments and psychosocial screening. This is to ensure each candidate, both the recipient and the donor, are ready for surgery and a good life post-kidney transplantation.
He said kidney transplant patients often experience increased energy, freedom from dialysis schedules, fewer dietary restrictions and greater independence.
“Studies have demonstrated that kidney transplant recipients live longer. We have patients in their 70s and 90s, who are stable thanks to their kidney transplants,” the doctor said.
He added that, on average, most transplant recipients live significantly longer compared to those who remain on chronic dialysis.
Still, there are some risks including bleeding, infection, blood clots, and anesthesia-related complications. There’s also the risk of organ rejection.
“With advancements in immunosuppressive therapy and surgical technique, many transplanted kidneys function immediately and for many years,” Agoncillo said.
Doctors at Mary Mediatrix performed their first kidney transplant in 1994. Agoncillo described it as a pioneering moment not just in Batangas but throughout what was then the Southern Tagalog region.
