Nairobi Hospital Offers Free Kidney Screening to Mark World Kidney Day

The Nairobi Hospital on Thursday marked World Kidney Day 2026 by offering free kidney screening and health checks to members of the public as part of efforts to raise awareness on the early detection and prevention of kidney disease.

The event was held under the global theme “Kidney Health for All – Caring for People, Protecting the Planet,” bringing together healthcare professionals and community members to highlight the importance of preventive healthcare and regular medical check-ups.

Globally, chronic kidney disease affects an estimated 850 million people, making it a growing public health concern. In Kenya, the number of kidney-related illnesses continues to rise, largely driven by the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.

Speaking during the event, The Nairobi Hospital Lead Nephrologist Dr Peris Koge said many patients fail to detect kidney disease early because symptoms often appear at advanced stages.

“Kidney disease is often referred to as a silent condition because many people do not experience symptoms until it is already advanced. Through initiatives like these, we hope to encourage people to prioritize regular health checks and adopt healthier lifestyles that protect kidney function,” said Dr Koge.

She noted that early screening and increased public awareness are key to preventing complications and improving long-term health outcomes.

During the exercise, members of the public received free medical checks including kidney screening, urinalysis, blood sugar testing, Body Mass Index (BMI) measurement and blood pressure checks.

Participants were also provided with educational materials outlining ways to maintain kidney health, including eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, controlling blood pressure and seeking regular medical check-ups.

The hospital said such community outreach initiatives help bridge the gap between healthcare institutions and the public by promoting preventive care and encouraging early medical intervention.

By Kizito Okumu