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Understand, prevent and act: towards a National Kidney Health Programme 2026-2032

More than 70% of patients are referred to a nephrologist at end stage: SOGANEPH calls for prevention to become a priority.

Gabonese Society of Nephrology (SOGANEPH)

Introduction

Chronic kidney disease is a major public health problem worldwide, and particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. In Gabon, limited access to early diagnosis and to kidney replacement therapy (haemodialysis and transplantation) is a daily challenge for health professionals. This article reviews the current state of kidney disease in Gabon and proposes strategies focused on primary, secondary and tertiary prevention.

Objectives

  • Assess the epidemiological situation of kidney disease in Gabon.
  • Identify the predominant cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors in the local population.
  • Highlight the role of prevention and early care, particularly for children in resource-limited settings.
  • Define practical recommendations to optimise haemodialysis care and promote the development of kidney transplantation.

Materials and methods

This is a descriptive, retrospective study based on data collected from nephrology and dialysis centres in Gabon. The analysis covered patients’ demographic profiles, the causes of chronic kidney failure, care pathways and complications observed during haemodialysis sessions.

Results

  • Patient profile: mostly young and middle-aged people with comorbidities such as high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.
  • Late diagnosis: more than 70% of patients are referred to nephrology at the end stage, requiring emergency dialysis.
  • Complications: high rate of cardiovascular and infectious complications in haemodialysis patients.
  • Paediatric nephrology: marked under-diagnosis of kidney conditions in children due to a lack of suitable equipment in paediatric settings.

Discussion

The results underline the urgent need for a paradigm shift focused on prevention. Raising public awareness, early screening for proteinuria and high blood pressure in people at risk, and continuing training for paramedical staff (particularly haemodialysis nurses) are essential pillars for reducing the incidence of end-stage kidney failure. Strengthening the legal and medical framework for kidney transplantation also remains a major strategic issue.

Conclusion

Faced with the growing burden of kidney disease in Gabon, joint action by the health authorities, learned societies and medical teams is essential. Acting early through prevention and patient education preserves the population’s kidney health and improves patients’ quality of life.