Health minister: ask about tests to tackle kidney disease early
Growing impacts of chronic kidney disease and the importance of early detection were highlighted by the health minister on World Kidney Day today.
Kim Wilson noted that treatment for the condition in Bermuda costs between $150,000 and $200,000 for each patient every year and that early detection is one of the best ways to combat CKD.
She explained: “CKD often develops silently, without symptoms, until it is advanced.
“I encourage everyone, especially those living with diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history of kidney disease, to speak with their doctor about simple screening tests.
“These checks can identify concerns early, when lifestyle changes and treatment are most effective.”
The Ministry’s Chronic Kidney Disease Integrated Care Pathway Report, released in 2024, detailed ways to strengthen prevention, early detection and management of CKD.
Ms Wilson said today: “This work reflects our commitment to improving patient outcomes while reducing the strain that CKD places on families, healthcare providers and the wider system.”
The report showed that data from the Bermuda Health Council based on health insurance claims for fiscal year 2022, 917 people were diagnosed with CKD.
However, it added that the actual prevalence of CKD could be higher.
Ms Wilson’s comments today came on the 20th annual World Kidney Day, themed “Kidney health for all: Caring for people, protecting the planet”.
She said everyday habits, such as eating balanced meals, staying active and hydrated and managing chronic conditions, “help protect our kidneys and support long-term wellbeing”.
Ms Wilson thanked those who support people living with kidney disease and concluded: “On this World Kidney Day, let us recommit to awareness, prevention and caring for our environment and our health.
“By taking care of our kidneys and taking care of our island, we are protecting our collective future.”
• To see the CKD integrated care pathway report from March 2024, see Related Media
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