Health experts have raised the alarm over the growing burden of kidney disease in the North-East, saying that about one in every 30 people in the subregion is affected.
They raised the concern during free screening programmes organised by the North East Development Commission (NEDC) in Gombe and Bauchi states.
A paediatric nephrologist, Dr. Ali Razak, said the initiative is aimed at promoting early detection and preventing kidney conditions from becoming chronic.
“Early diagnosis is key to reducing complications,” he said, warning against self-medication and stressing that misuse of drugs can damage the kidneys.
He explained that infections such as malaria, diarrhoea, and dehydration are major causes in children, while hypertension and diabetes are leading causes among adults.
In Bauchi, the NEDC, in collaboration with the Nigeria Association of Nephrology, carried out a public awareness campaign at Tashan Mass Motor Park.
The state coordinator, Alhaji Aliyu Isiyaku, said the outreach was designed to improve access to screening and educate residents on prevention.
Head of the Renal Centre at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Dr Mohammed Rabi’u Garba, linked the rising cases to poor lifestyle habits, environmental exposure, and the misuse of herbal medications.
He noted that people working in harsh conditions, especially those exposed to heat and dehydration, face higher risks.
Garba added that although dialysis costs have reduced to about N12,000 per session, kidney care remains expensive.
He also revealed that 70–80 per cent of patients have underlying conditions such as hypertension or diabetes.
Free tests and initial medications were provided, while serious cases were referred for further treatment.
The experts urged regular check-ups, adequate hydration, and sustained public awareness to curb the trend.