Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Sylivia Katushabe
Published on 2024-02-01 05:09:14
On December 20, 2023, a team of medical experts from Uganda, in collaboration with colleagues from Yashoda Hospital in India, successfully performed the first kidney transplant in Uganda at the Mulago National Referral Hospital. This landmark achievement marked the initiation of the kidney transplant program in the country, eliminating the need for patients to incur additional costs associated with traveling abroad for treatment. However, patients in need of this life-saving procedure will be required to pay approximately Shs45m for the transplant.
Dr. Simon Peter Eyoku, the head of the Kidney Unit at Mulago hospital, explained in an interview with Monitor that while the first procedure was conducted free of charge, the hospital cannot sustain free transplants in the near future due to the costly nature of the procedure. He emphasized that patients will need to bear the cost of the transplant, acknowledging that the advantage lies in the fact that it will be more affordable than seeking treatment in India.
Dr. Eyoku further disclosed that the Office of the President sponsored the first transplant, covering the costs of necessary investigations, surgery, and medication for a minimum of six months. He urged the government to continue supporting individuals in need of this life-saving procedure.
However, he stressed that the cost of post-transplant drugs is a significant financial burden for patients, often leading to rejection of treatment due to its expensive nature. The after-transplant treatment, which includes purchasing drugs, attending consultations, and hospital reviews, can amount to a cost between $7 (Shs26,500) and $10,000 (Shs37.9m).
The success of the first kidney transplant has led to an increased number of kidney patients seeking transplants, with over 30 patients currently on the waiting list. Dr. Eyoku added that every patient below the age of 60 who is on colonic dialysis in the country is potentially on the list for a transplant.
Looking ahead, it is anticipated that another transplant will be conducted in the near future. Prof. Frank Asiimwe, a consultant urologist and transplant surgeon at the hospital, confirmed that preparations for another transplant are underway, with assessments being carried out on potential patients and donors. The executive director of Mulago National Referral Hospital, Dr. Rosemary Byanyima, also affirmed that the hospital has started the preparation for the second transplant, hinting that it will be done in the near future.
In conclusion, the successful kidney transplant conducted at Mulago National Referral Hospital represents a significant advancement in the medical landscape of Uganda, offering hope to patients in need of this life-saving procedure. While the cost of the transplant remains a concern, the establishment of the kidney transplant program within the country is a positive development that will ultimately benefit many individuals in need of renal treatment.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
