Itanagar, Mar 14: Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS) observed World Kidney Day at its Department of Nephrology on March 12 to raise awareness about kidney health and the prevention of kidney diseases.
The programme brought together healthcare professionals, patients, caregivers and members of the community. As part of the observance, a free health screening programme was organised to assess kidney health among individuals.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Medical Superintendent of TRIHMS, Dr Dukhum Raina, highlighted the rising incidence of chronic kidney disease and stressed the importance of regular health check-ups and preventive care. He also appreciated the dedication of doctors, nurses and dialysis technicians who continue to support patients suffering from kidney-related ailments.
Dr Oyik Tamut, Nephrologist at TRIHMS, spoke about the vital functions of healthy kidneys, including filtering waste products, regulating body fluids, maintaining electrolyte balance, controlling blood pressure and supporting blood production and bone health.He noted that kidney disease is often referred to as a “silent disease” because symptoms may not appear until the condition becomes severe, and therefore emphasised the importance of early detection.
Dr Tamut also expressed gratitude to authorities under the Chief Minister Arogya Arunachal Yojana (CMAAY), through which beneficiaries are receiving dialysis procedures and catheter insertions free of cost. The dialysis unit at TRIHMS is also providing expensive procedures such as plasmapheresis free of charge and catering to patients suffering from neurological, hematological and other non-kidney-related conditions.
Dr Rajdeb Saha, Consultant Nephrologist from SRGRH, Delhi, explained the importance of early detection and prevention of kidney disease. He said maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, controlling blood pressure and diabetes and undergoing regular health check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of kidney damage.
To mark the occasion, the TRIHMS Dialysis Unit felicitated two dialysis patients in recognition of their courage and determination. One of them, who has been on dialysis for 16 years and is among the longest-surviving dialysis patients in India, shared his experience and encouraged other patients.
Dr T Lollen, Dialysis Medical Officer at TRIHMS, highlighted the collective role of patients, caregivers and healthcare workers in improving the quality of life of those dependent on dialysis.
The programme concluded with an interactive session between doctors and patients, followed by the distribution of fruits and refreshments to dialysis patients.