Taytay residents get free screening for Chronic Kidney Disease
MANILA, Philippines – In the Philippines, an estimated 13 million Filipinos are living with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). This accounts for 11.2% of the Philippine population. What is dangerous about the disease is that it often develops silently, so many of those who develop the condition are unaware that they have it until symptoms appear or the disease has progressed.
This is why early screening is important, because that will make it possible to identify risks sooner, access timely care, and help prevent further progression of the disease.
Recognizing the importance of early detection, the Municipality of Taytay has joined hands with Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines, with the support of Angat Taytay, to expand access to kidney health screening and education through the “Iwas Dialysis, Ligtas Kidneys: Get CheCKD Habang Maaga Pa!” program.
Implemented under the leadership of the Municipal Government of Taytay, and in coordination with local barangay officials, barangay health centers, and community groups, the program brings kidney health screening closer to residents. The goal, which is in line with the Universal Healthcare Act (RA 11223), is to help them understand their kidney health, identify potential risks early, and take proactive steps toward prevention.
Initial implementation of the program in Taytay has benefitted almost 4,000 residents in just two months. This reflects the strong community response and wide reach of kidney health screening efforts across the municipality.
“Early detection can make a meaningful difference in Chronic Kidney Disease, and it begins with improving access to screening in communities that need it most. We are committed to improving health outcomes by working with local governments, community organizations, and healthcare providers to bring kidney health education and screening closer to more Filipinos, empowering them to take action early,” said Dr. Greta Cortez, Head of Medicine, Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines.
To cover other communities in Taytay and encourage more residents to get checked for CKD, the Municipality of Taytay and Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines has scheduled another round of “Iwas Dialysis, Ligtas Kidneys: Get CheCKD Habang Maaga Pa!” kidney health screening activities this month.
The free CKD screenings were held in different barangays from August 8 to 23. The remaining schedules are on August 29 in Sitio Bayabas Purok 1 and on August 30 in Sitio Bayabas Purok 5.
“The best healthcare is the illness that never happens. Prevention is the most compassionate and cost-effective investment any local government can make. Kidney disease is often a silent condition, and through preventive screening, we give our residents something more valuable than medicine — we give them time, knowledge, and the chance to act early. A healthier community is ultimately a stronger and more resilient Taytay," said Aldwin Aguinaldo, Municipal Health Officer of Taytay.
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