BY DEANNE MAE C. URBIZTONDO & MARINA O. VILLEGAS | CMU Interns
HEALTH and wellness took center stage at the National Kidney Month celebration held at SM City Davao Annex in Ecoland on Friday, June 26, where participants gathered for a day of free services and interactive learning.
Visitors availed themselves of free kidney health screenings, explored educational booths, joined games with prizes, viewed displays of fresh fruits and vegetables promoting healthy nutrition, and enjoyed a complimentary photo booth, turning the event into both an informative and engaging community experience.
The afternoon program shifted the focus from activities to awareness as adult nephrologist Dr. Aivan Matthew G. Wee delivered a lecture on chronic kidney disease (CKD).
He explained that while CKD often develops silently, common risk factors such as aging, family history, unhealthy lifestyle choices, and the excessive use of pain medications can increase a person’s likelihood of developing the disease. His discussion encouraged participants to adopt healthier habits and prioritize regular medical checkups for early detection.
Highlighting the growing burden of kidney disease, Wee shared that 6,433 individuals in the Davao Region are currently undergoing dialysis, with cases increasing by 10 to 15 percent each year. The figures underscored the importance of preventive healthcare, reinforcing the event’s message that awareness, healthy living, and early screening remain the best defenses against chronic kidney disease.
“If you’re already dealing with diabetes and hypertension, have a family history of these diseases, and are 60 years old or older, get yourself tested. Early detection always saves the kidneys,” Wee said.
