Silent destroyer: Experts Warn Nigerians as Kidney Disease Cases Surge and Costs Hit N1 Million Monthly

At 42, Chinedu never imagined that everyday habits like sugary drinks, lack of sleep and unmanaged high blood pressure could lead to life threatening complications. By the time symptoms appeared, his kidneys were already failing, leaving him with limited and expensive treatment options.

Health experts say cases like this are becoming increasingly common across Nigeria, with many patients only discovering kidney problems at advanced stages. According to Nmadu Danladi of Federal Medical Centre Ebute Metta, kidney disease often progresses silently.

“Most people do not realise anything is wrong until it is too late,” he said, noting that kidney failure places a heavy emotional, physical and financial burden on patients and their families.

Treatment costs remain a major concern. Dialysis sessions in many hospitals range between 40000 and 50000 naira per session, with patients requiring multiple sessions weekly. Monthly costs can climb to nearly 1 million naira, making it unaffordable for many families. However, government intervention has helped ease the burden in some centres, with subsidised dialysis now costing about 12000 naira per session at the facility.

Medical professionals warn that prevention and early detection are critical. Kidney disease is commonly linked to conditions such as Hypertension and Diabetes, both of which are on the rise in Nigeria.

Experts recommend simple lifestyle ces including drinking enough water, reducing salt intake, eating more vegetables, exercising regularly and getting adequate rest. Routine screening is also essential, especially for individuals over 40 or those with underlying health conditions.

Muyideen Orolu emphasized a simple annual check known as the ABC approach which includes blood tests urine tests and imaging to detect early signs of damage.

Healthcare workers also warn against the misuse of medications and unregulated herbal mixtures, which can significantly damage the kidneys.

With hospitals reporting rising cases daily, experts stress that early action remains the most effective way to prevent kidney failure and avoid the high cost and strain of long term treatment.