Muhimbili-Mloganzila boosts kidney care services
DAR ES SALAAM: MUHIMBILI National Hospital-Mloganzila has expanded specialised kidney care, performing 28 kidney transplants since launching the service in April 2023 and increasing surgeries that enable patients to undergo dialysis.
Speaking on behalf of the hospital’s Executive Director yesterday, Assistant Director of Surgical Services Dr Godlove Mfuko said the hospital had also carried out 289 blood vessel procedures for dialysis patients since 2024.
He said the latest progress followed a special kidney transplant and dialysis access camp held from August 16 to 19, during which 38 patients received dialysis access services and 37 underwent surgery to create specialised blood vessels for dialysis treatment.
“The hospital remains committed to expanding specialised kidney services so that more patients can access lifesaving treatment within the country,” Dr Mfuko said.
Nephrologist, Dr Anthony Gyunda said about 10 per cent of the world’s population lives with kidney disease in varying degrees, underscoring the need to strengthen specialised treatment services.
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He said kidney transplants in Tanzania are carried out using organs donated by relatives who meet the required medical criteria.
“Every donor undergoes comprehensive medical screening to ensure the procedure is safe for both the donor and the recipient,” Dr Gyunda said.
He said the assessment includes tests for diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, heart health and other vital body systems before donation is approved.
Consultant urologist and transplant surgeon, Dr David Mgaya said expanding kidney transplant and dialysis access services was improving treatment options for patients with severe kidney disease and giving more Tanzanians access to specialised care without relying solely on treatment abroad.
