Senator Raffy Tulfo has raised alarm over the growing number of Filipinos suffering from Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), calling it a “silent killer” that needs urgent government action.
In a recent privilege speech, Tulfo said around 13 million Filipinos are affected by CKD in different stages, citing data from the Philippine Society of Nephrology.
He said one Filipino develops chronic renal failure every hour, while more than half of kidney disease patients are now aged 20 to 59.
The senator also expressed concern over younger patients getting diagnosed, including teenagers and children as young as four years old.
Tulfo shared stories of CKD patients who sought help from his office, including a patient diagnosed at 16 who has been undergoing dialysis for six years.
Treatment costs for advanced CKD, according to him, can reach as high as P116,000, especially for patients in Stages 3 to 5.
He cited uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension as the leading causes of kidney disease in the country.
To address the problem, Tulfo pushed for expanded early detection programs, wider access to diagnostic tests like the uACR test, and warning labels on food products high in sugar and sodium.
He also urged lawmakers to support Senate Bill No. 2123 or the “Accessible Kidney Care Act,” which seeks to provide free kidney screenings in barangay and Super Health Centers nationwide.IMT
