An awareness walk at Lahore General Hospital brought together senior doctors, nurses and paramedical staff to mark World Kidney Day and spotlight rising threats to kidney health from food adulteration, unbalanced diets, sedentary lifestyles and environmental pollution.
Prof. Dr. Farooq Afzal, Principal of Amir-ud-Din Medical College and Lahore General Hospital, addressed the gathering and noted that while kidney disease is increasingly seen among men, women continue to lead in organ donation. He called on healthcare professionals and the media to take an active role in educating the public about prevention and safeguarding younger generations, referencing this year s global theme Kidney Health For All Caring for People Protecting the Planet.
Prof. Farooq Afzal stressed that access to clean drinking water, a balanced diet, regular physical activity and avoiding unnecessary medications are practical steps families can take to preserve kidney health. He urged citizens to adopt responsible habits and to seek verified medical advice rather than unlicensed treatments.
Dr. Abad-ur-Rehman, Professor of Nephrology at LGH, described chronic kidney disease as a silent killer that often shows no symptoms early on. He advised patients with diabetes and hypertension to undergo regular kidney function tests to prevent complications and reduce the likelihood of dialysis. Preventive measures highlighted included reducing salt intake, maintaining physical activity and quitting smoking.
Dr. Abad-ur-Rehman warned that warning signs such as morning swelling of the face and feet, loss of appetite, foamy urine and breathing difficulties should prompt immediate medical consultation. At the media briefing that followed the walk, Prof. Farooq Afzal also cautioned against quacks and unauthorized practitioners, noting that inappropriate medications can cause irreversible kidney damage.
Participants in the awareness walk included Prof. Shandana Tariq, Prof. Faiza Athar, Prof. Amna Ahsan Cheema, Dr. Saira Zeeshan, Dr. Yasir Hussain, Dr. Roshina Anjum, Dr. Sajid, Dr. Jaffar Hussain, Dr. Abdul Aziz, Dr. Muhammad Maqsood and Nursing Superintendent Saima Fateh alongside a large contingent of senior doctors, nurses and paramedical staff. They carried banners and placards promoting kidney health, hygiene and environmental protection while the Principal led the procession to reinforce the message of early diagnosis, preventive care and healthier lifestyles for the community.
