15 May 2024

The alarming number of kidney failure cases in North West District has prompted a collaborative research work to get to the root cause of the problem.

Currently, Ngami District Health Management Team (DHMT) has registered 59 cases.

This was revealed by DHMT coordinator, Dr Sandra Maripe-Ebutswe when responding to some comments raised by residents during a kgotla meeting.

Residents wanted clarity on whether the alarming number of kidney disease cases were associated with water supplied in the village, but urged them to exercise patience as the findings of the research would inform reveal the cause.

“As health practitioners, we cannot say if the water causes kidney complications, but I can assure you that our research will establish the cause and once the work is complete, we will use appropriate channels to report back to you,” she added.

However, Dr Maripe-Ebutswe shared that many lifestyle factors and consequences of some chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, too much salt, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking could also cause kidney disorders.

She stressed the need for members of the community to take charge of their kidney health which she said was a cornerstone of their overall well-being. 

Residents were also informed that a renal dialysis unit has been opened at Letsholathebe Memorial hospital to advance kidney care and access services to care for people with kidney complications.

She encouraged the community to utilise the services at the unit. 

Dr Maripe-Ebutswe noted that Initially patients were referred to Francistown and Gaborone but the services were now accessible and affordable nearer.

She disclosed that the referral hospital had received two ophthalmologists and one paediatrician for the first time in history and added that they were still in need of other specialists such as orthopaedic surgeons and otolaryngologist.

Residents were also advised to access other health services at Moeti Clinic to reduce congestion at the referral hospital. 

The facility offers integrated services and also has a maternity wing that operates 24 hours. 

Dr Maripe-Ebutswe explained that the maternity wing was also used as waiting home for expectant mothers coming from outside areas such as Somelo, Khwai and Mababe.

Residents were also urged to prepare for the upcoming campaigns of screening for cervical and breast cancers and blood donation billed for May 20-31, and June 6 -7 in Maun.

“Health facilities are in need of blood and I urge you to donate blood to save lives,” Dr Maripe-Ebutswe said. 

Member of Parliament for Maun, Mr Dumelang Saleshando commended DHMT for expanding and enhancing primary health services to ensure members of the community receive quality comprehensive care closer.

He said primary health care was essential as it promotes the attainment by all people of a level of health that would permit them to live socially and economically productive lives. Ends