Hypertension, Diabetes Raise Kidney Failure Risk – Expert

The Chief Medical Director of Wellington Hospital, Abuja, Dr Charles Ugwuanyi, has warned that uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes are putting Nigerians at risk of kidney damage, urging regular screening and early treatment to prevent complications.

Ugwuanyi raised the concern at a press conference to mark the hospital’s 15th anniversary, where he highlighted the dangers of poorly managed chronic diseases and indiscriminate use of medications.

He said that Nigeria records about 9,000 new cases of end-stage kidney failure every month, explaining that hypertension and diabetes could progressively damage the kidneys, particularly when patients remain undiagnosed or fail to manage the conditions adequately.

High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste from the blood effectively. Diabetes can also damage the kidney’s filtering units when blood sugar levels remain elevated over time.
Ugwuanyi urged Nigerians to check their blood pressure and blood sugar levels regularly, stressing that early detection and appropriate management could help reduce the risk of serious complications.

He also cautioned against the indiscriminate use of painkillers, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, indomethacin and naproxen, warning that inappropriate use could harm the kidneys, especially in people with existing kidney problems or other risk factors.

The neurosurgeon advised Nigerians against self-medication, urging those with persistent symptoms or known chronic conditions to seek professional medical attention and follow prescribed treatment.
He further called for healthier lifestyles and early medical intervention to reduce the risk of kidney complications.
He said the hospital had installed seven dialysis machines to support critically ill patients who develop kidney problems during severe illness or after surgery, alongside other specialist services provided through collaborations with healthcare professionals.

The CMD said that the hospital has attended to 9,457 patients and performed 4,657 surgeries in 15 years of providing specialised neurological and neurosurgical services in the country.

He said the hospital, established in February 2011, was founded to provide specialised treatment for disorders affecting the brain, spine and peripheral nerves. He explained that he and his colleague, Dr Jubril, established the facility after training at a specialist neurological and neurosurgical hospital in London, with the aim of bringing their expertise back to Nigeria.

According to him, of the 4,657 surgeries performed, 2,150 were brain operations, while 2,307 involved the spine, with the remainder covering other procedures.

The CMD said the hospital had expanded its facilities and specialist services to improve access to advanced treatment locally. He listed its diagnostic and treatment capabilities to include MRI and CT scans, electroencephalography for epilepsy assessment, intensive care, neurorehabilitation and six operating suites.

Ugwuanyi said the hospital was committed to patient safety, professional training and collaboration with local and international specialists, stressing that quality healthcare required investment in modern equipment, reliable power and skilled personnel.

He disclosed that the facility had recorded 120 days of uninterrupted power supply after switching to solar energy, which he said had reduced equipment breakdowns and lowered operating costs.