2024 National Nutrition Month

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) represents a significant global health concern, often progressing asymptomatically in millions of individuals until it reaches advanced stages. As kidney function deteriorates, it adversely affects multiple organ systems, resulting in serious complications such as cardiovascular disease, anaemia, bone disorders, and eventually end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), which necessitates dialysis or renal transplantation. The impact of CKD is substantial at both individual and societal levels, manifesting as diminished quality of life, considerable healthcare expenditures, and elevated mortality rates.

In Ghana, the prevalence and impact of CKD are particularly pronounced and continue to increase. Research indicates that CKD occurrence in Ghana rivals, and may even exceed, that observed in some high-income nations. Prevalence estimates among the general population range from 13% to 14%, with much higher rates—approaching 50%—in specific high-risk groups, such as individuals with hypertension. Hypertension and diabetes mellitus remain the principal contributors to CKD worldwide, a trend equally evident in Ghana. The rising incidence of these non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is largely attributable to rapid urbanisation and associated lifestyle modifications, including changes in dietary habits and decreased physical activity.

Dietary choices play a crucial role in managing blood pressure, blood glucose, and overall metabolic health, which are integral to kidney health. Enhanced awareness of the relationship between nutrition and renal function can enable individuals and communities to adopt preventive measures against CKD. This underscores the importance of making informed decisions about diet, recognising that each meal presents an opportunity to support and preserve renal health rather than compromise it.