The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, through Tygerberg Hospital, recently marked World Kidney Day with a community Fun Walk aimed at raising awareness of kidney health, early detection of disease and the importance of organ donation.
Held on Saturday 14 March, the inaugural event brought together 355 participants, including hospital staff, families, community members and partner organisations. While the walk celebrated wellness and community spirit, organisers emphasised that the event formed part of a broader effort to prevent kidney disease and strengthen awareness of available health services, the Health Department stated.
Kidney disease often develops silently, with many people unaware they are affected until the condition is advanced. Early detection through routine screening for conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes remains among the most effective ways to prevent serious complications.
Prof Yazied Chothia, head of nephrology at Tygerberg Hospital, noted that kidney disease continued to place a significant burden on families and the health system.
“Every year, hundreds of South Africans die while waiting for a kidney transplant. Greater awareness of kidney health and organ donation can save lives and offer hope to patients who rely on these programmes.”
Tygerberg Hospital plays a key role in providing specialised nephrology services for the province, including dialysis and transplant care. However, preventing kidney disease before it reaches this stage remains a critical priority, the Health Department said.
Residents were encouraged to visit their nearest primary health-care clinic or community health centre for routine screening, especially if they have risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity or a family history of kidney disease. Early detection allows patients to receive treatment and lifestyle support before kidney damage progresses.
Through its network of clinics, community health centres and hospitals the provincial Department of Health works to support patients across the full continuum of care, from prevention and early diagnosis at primary-care level to specialised treatment at tertiary facilities such as Tygerberg Hospital, the department said.
World Kidney Day also serves as a reminder of the life-saving role of organ donation. The department continued to encourage residents to discuss organ donation with their families and consider registering as donors.
Tygerberg Hospital expressed appreciation to all staff members, partners and community stakeholders whose participation helped make the event a success and reinforced the shared commitment to promoting healthier communities.
The hospital hoped to build on the success of the event in future years as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen public awareness and support residents to live healthier lives, the department said.
