DOH screens Mimaropa pupils for kidney ailments

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Health (DOH) in Mimaropa region has embarked on a program on the early detection of kidney ailments among grade school children.

Recently, the DOH-Mimaropa conducted urine tests among Grade 1-6 students in South Central and Panique elementary schools in Odiongan, Romblon to determine those who have kidney problems, said DOH-Mimaropa director Eduardo Janairo.

Mimaropa, or Region 4-B, groups Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan.

“The earlier you know that you have kidney disease, the sooner you can get treatment to help delay or prevent kidney failure. Early detection and proper treatment helps reduce the chance of complications and kidney failure,” he said.

Janairo said many children are not in the habit of peeing regularly, especially if they are outside their homes, and usually prefer soda over water and food high in salt, making them susceptible to urinary tract infections and other ailments.

“Proper nutrition and by eating the right food can help prevent or delay the occurrence of kidney diseases. It is vital for parents or guardians to provide their children with a healthy diet. Eating moderately such as reduced intake of salt, sugar and protein can help lessen the incidence of developing kidney disease,” he added.

Urine screening or urinalysis is one of the strategies of the DOH’s Renal Disease Control Program to detect the presence of albumin in the urine. This protein can be seen in the urine when the kidneys are damaged.