Health officials are urging the public to undergo regular kidney screening after data revealed that approximately 6,500 individuals in Davao Region are currently undergoing dialysis treatment. The figure underscores the need for early detection and prevention of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Data disclosed at forum
The information was shared during the Kapehan sa Dabaw forum at SM City Davao Annex on Quimpo Boulevard, Davao City, on Monday, June 22, 2026. Health experts highlighted the growing burden of kidney disease and the importance of routine medical checkups to prevent complications and delay disease progression.
Dr. Richelle May Cajoles-Pagarigan, an adult nephrologist and internist, said, “We advocate for prevention. We advocate for early screening. And if the patient has already reached that stage, we advocate for renal replacement therapies that are aligned with the patient.”
National context
Cajoles-Pagarigan noted that while Davao Region has about 6,500 dialysis patients, the national figure stands at approximately 150,000. She added that health authorities are improving data collection on patients in various stages of CKD, with an established database for dialysis patients already in place to monitor cases and guide interventions.
Silent disease
According to Cajoles-Pagarigan, CKD is often called a “silent disease” because many patients do not experience noticeable symptoms during early stages. Common symptoms may include fatigue, swelling, blood in the urine, and persistent hiccups, though manifestations vary.
Most CKD and dialysis patients are between 40 and 60 years old, but younger individuals can also develop the disease. The youngest dialysis patient she has personally encountered was 15 years old.
Screening recommendations
To detect kidney problems early, health officials encourage simple screening procedures such as urinalysis, creatinine testing, and kidney ultrasound when necessary, as well as consultation with specialists if abnormalities are detected.
National Kidney Month event
As part of National Kidney Month, the Department of Health, in partnership with the Philippine Society of Nephrology Davao Chapter, will hold a culmination activity on June 26 at SM City Davao Annex. The event will feature health lectures on kidney disease prevention, nutrition, and healthy lifestyles, along with free screening services, consultations, and community activities aimed at promoting kidney health among Dabawenyos.
