Photo for representation only.
Doha: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) will start kidney transplantation from donors who do not necessarily have the same blood type as the donor from July.
Dr Hassan Al Malki, Head of Nephrology at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), revealed this at a press conference held yesterday announcing the activities for World Kidney Day (WKD) on March 9, to raise awareness among the public.
Kidney transplantations are usually carried out between a donor and a recipient of the same blood type. However, in order to expand the donation process among the members of the family, HMC will rely on transplantation of the kidney from a donor to a patient who does not necessarily carry the same blood type, after making sure that the tissue and other medical conditions are satisfied for the conduct of such operations.
At present, a total of 900 patients with kidney diseases are on dialysis and some of them are on waiting list for transplant. Transplantation is considered as best option for the kidney failure as a lifesaving initiative, say experts.
“Those who are at high risks of developing kidney disorder are advised to do an annual screening. Diabetes, hypertension, obesity and with a family history of kidney problems are at a risk of developing Chronic Kidney Disease,” said Dr Al Malki.
Till March 8, health awareness booths will be set up at the main entrances of Hamad General, Women’s, Al Wakra and Al Khor Hospitals. The booths will be staffed by clinical teams from HMC and will provide patients, visitors, and other members of the public with information leaflets and health education materials.
“It may not become apparent that a person has kidney disease until their kidney function is significantly impaired. Our kidneys are highly adaptable and able to compensate for lost function, so signs and symptoms may not appear until irreversible damage has occurred. Kidney disease can affect people of all ages and races and it is important that we use the oc-casion of World Kidney Day to educate members of the community about how important this vital organ is and what they can do to protect it,” Dr Al Malki had said earlier.
Dietitians and nephrology educators will also be available to provide advice and answer questions. Members of the public are also invited to participate in a walkathon on 9 March from 3pm to 6pm at the Doha Corniche.
From March 11 to 13, HMC will also host various awareness activities at select primary health centers and secondary schools, as well as at Qatar University, the University of Calgary in Qatar, and Weill Cornell Medicine.
