Adaklu Tsriefe (V/R), March 13, – Madam Lynda Buatsi, Health Promotion Officer at the Adaklu District Health Directorate, has described as superstitious the belief held by some people that kidney disease is caused by spiritual forces.
She explained that kidney disease is a medical condition linked to biological, environmental, and lifestyle factors, rather than spiritual causes.
Madam Buatsi made the remarks during a kidney disease awareness programme organised by the GOSANET Foundation at Adaklu Tsriefe in the Adaklu District to commemorate World Kidney Day.
The annual event, marked on the second Thursday of March, aims to raise global awareness about the importance of kidney health and the prevention of kidney-related diseases.
This year’s celebration was held under the theme “Kidney Health for All: Caring for People, Protecting the Planet.”
Madam Buatsi, who also serves as the District Disease Control Officer, said that although cultural beliefs might influence how some communities interpret illnesses, kidney disease was largely associated with medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, infections, and unhealthy lifestyles.
She noted that the condition often develops gradually without obvious symptoms, making it difficult for people to detect until it reaches an advanced stage.
According to her, the kidneys perform critical functions, including filtering waste from the blood, regulating blood pressure, maintaining fluid balance, and supporting the overall health of the body.
She listed several risk factors for kidney disease, including high blood pressure, diabetes, misuse of certain medications without prescription, infections, dehydration, excessive salt intake, alcohol abuse, smoking, and family history of the disease.
Madam Buatsi said many kidney-related illnesses could be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices and regular medical check-ups.
She therefore advised the public to drink enough clean water, reduce salt consumption, engage in regular physical activity, and monitor their blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
She also urged people to avoid excessive alcohol intake and smoking, and to seek professional medical advice before taking medications.
The Health Promotion Officer further encouraged individuals to seek immediate medical attention whenever symptoms appear, rather than delaying treatment due to misconceptions about the causes of the illness.
Meanwhile, Mr Samuel Yao Atidzah, Executive Director of the GOSANET Foundation, reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to supporting health education and disease prevention initiatives.
He said the organisation would continue to collaborate with the Ghana Health Service and other stakeholders to improve community health in the Adaklu District and beyond.
Mr Atidzah also encouraged residents to take proactive measures to protect their kidneys and maintain healthy lifestyles.
GHBUSS
March 13, 2026
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