The escalating demand for dialysis in Cyprus, driven by a sharp rise in kidney-related health issues, is putting significant pressure on the healthcare system. With chronic kidney disease affecting a growing number of individuals, improved management and prevention strategies are urgently needed to address the surging numbers and strain on healthcare infrastructure.
Why is there a growing demand for dialysis in Cyprus?
The demand for dialysis in Cyprus is growing due to a sharp increase in individuals with kidney dialysis needs, more than doubling in ten years. Factors contributing to this include a high prevalence of chronic kidney disease, the tenth leading cause of death globally, and lifestyle factors like diabetes and hypertension. The healthcare system is under strain, highlighting the need for improved management and prevention strategies.
Surging Numbers Reveal Growing Health Concern
The escalating health crisis unfolds as the number of individuals in Cyprus requiring kidney dialysis has sharply risen, more than doubling in just ten years. This alarming trend was brought to light by the Cyprus Nephrological Society ahead of World Kidney Day. With chronic kidney disease ranking as the tenth leading cause of death globally, it impacts one in every ten people internationally. The society emphasized that the issue is far from static, with expectations pointing towards a continued upward trajectory in the years to come.
The significance of these figures is profound; even a modest percentage of the population necessitating haemodialysis or kidney transplants translates into upwards of 200 new cases annually in Cyprus alone. This surge places the small island nation near the top of European countries in terms of the proportion of its population needing kidney interventions, with local rates nearly double the European and Mediterranean averages.
The Strain on Cyprus’s Healthcare Infrastructure
As the prevalence of serious kidney health problems intensifies, the healthcare system is feeling the strain. This trend correlates with a substantial economic toll and, according to the society, goes hand-in-hand with past inadequacies in planning. They point out that the initial stages of chronic kidney disease have not been managed timely and correctly, leading to a dearth in skilled medical and nursing staff to meet the growing demands.
The society notes that the introduction of Gesy, the Cypriot National Health System, has marked a positive change, improving access to healthcare services and specialists. Regular health checks, which are more accessible through Gesy, facilitate the early detection and treatment of chronic kidney disease. Early indicators, such as kidney function tests, urinalysis, and blood pressure checks, can be vital in preempting the progression of the disease.
Lifestyle Factors and Prevention
The underlying factors exacerbating chronic kidney disease, such as diabetes and arterial hypertension, affect over half of those who eventually require dialysis. The society underscores the importance of tackling obesity and reducing excessive salt intake as preventative measures against the disease’s progression.
Clea Papaellina, chairwoman of the Pancyprian Association of Friends of Kidney Patients, discussed the current situation with the news agency, highlighting that more than 1,200 Cypriots are grappling with end-stage chronic kidney disease. While there has been a significant increase in nephrologists, and haemodialysis units are present in all state hospitals, the mounting cases of chronic kidney disease have begun to cause bottlenecks in providing adequate care.
A Call to Action and Awareness
The conversation around kidney health in Cyprus isn’t just limited to the medical community. Papaellina emphasizes the point that kidney disease can affect anyone, underlining the importance of lifestyle choices and regular kidney function monitoring. World Kidney Day serves as a platform, not only to raise awareness of kidney health challenges but also to rally support for those battling the disease daily.
The situation in Cyprus is a stark reminder of the broader challenges faced worldwide in managing chronic kidney disease. As the number of affected individuals rises, so does the need for effective healthcare strategies, early diagnosis, and an increased emphasis on prevention and education.
Why is there a growing demand for dialysis in Cyprus?
The demand for dialysis in Cyprus is growing due to a sharp increase in individuals with kidney dialysis needs, more than doubling in ten years. Factors contributing to this include a high prevalence of chronic kidney disease, the tenth leading cause of death globally, and lifestyle factors like diabetes and hypertension. The healthcare system is under strain, highlighting the need for improved management and prevention strategies.
How has the number of individuals requiring kidney dialysis changed in Cyprus?
The number of individuals in Cyprus requiring kidney dialysis has sharply risen, more than doubling in just ten years. This alarming trend was brought to light by the Cyprus Nephrological Society ahead of World Kidney Day. Chronic kidney disease impacts one in every ten people internationally, and the issue in Cyprus is far from static, with expectations pointing towards a continued upward trajectory in the years to come.
What impact is the surging demand for dialysis having on Cyprus’s healthcare infrastructure?
As the prevalence of serious kidney health problems intensifies, the healthcare system in Cyprus is feeling the strain. This trend correlates with a substantial economic toll and past inadequacies in planning. While the introduction of Gesy, the Cypriot National Health System, has marked a positive change, challenges in managing chronic kidney disease persist due to inadequate staffing and planning.
What lifestyle factors contribute to chronic kidney disease and what preventative measures can be taken?
Lifestyle factors like diabetes and arterial hypertension affect over half of those who eventually require dialysis. Tackling obesity and reducing excessive salt intake are cited as preventative measures against the disease’s progression. Regular health checks and early detection are vital in preempting the progression of chronic kidney disease. World Kidney Day serves as a platform to raise awareness and foster support for those battling kidney disease.
