HYDERABAD: Global Kidney Support Group, an initiative of the Global Hospitals at Lakdikapul in the city, was launched by health minister C Lakshma Reddy on Wednesday, on the eve of World Kidney Day.
Lakshma Reddy said, “Recently, some members of the Dialysis Patients Association have approached me for financial help. I was suprised to learn that the association has 5,000 patients as members. While the Arogyasri scheme covers the cost of dialysis, it is saddening to note that the patients could not even buy a bus ticket. We will do all we can to provide assistance to patients and ensure that all the hospitals are well-equipped.”
Dr KS Ratnakar, chairman of Global Medical Education and Research Foundation, said two kidney-related deaths were occurring every minute and 540 every day. “It is a silent killer as the warning signs are not as strong as in other diseases. Public awareness is very essential,” he said.
Dr Ramashankar, consultant nephrologist, said, “The support group will meet once in every two months and is open to all. People need to understand that it possible to overcome their health issues as there are many options available. What is important is the knowledge of what is the safest way,” he said.