Davao City Councilor Jessica M. Bonguyan proposed for first reading, through a privilege speech, the institutionalization of an early pediatric kidney disease screening and early detection program in Davao City.
In her privilege speech, the councilor expressed alarm over the rising incidence of kidney diseases, with some cases already being recorded at an early age.
Bonguyan cited a Department of Health (DOH) data revealing that about 2,400 patients in the Davao Region are currently undergoing treatment for chronic kidney disease and kidney failure, a number seen to increase by 12 to 13 percent annually.
“Davao City has consistently been cited by health experts as having one of the highest numbers of kidney disease cases in the country, with many patients seeking medical care only when the disease has already reached an advanced stage,” she said.
Bonguyan added that medical evidence also showed that many cases originate early in life and are often silent and asymptomatic.
“Without early detection and intervention, chronic kidney disease (CKD) may progress to end-stage renal disease requiring lifelong dialysis or kidney transplantation. These treatments are physically exhausting, emotionally draining, and financially devastating for families. The importance of early detection cannot be overstated,” she said.
She noted that simple, low-cost screening tools have been proven effective in identifying kidney disease at an early stage.
“Early screening programs can prevent suffering, reduce long-term health expenditures, and promote healthier future generations,” Bonguyan said.
She also emphasized that protecting the health of children is an important investment.
Bonguyan then proposed further study and evaluation by the Committee on Health on the institutionalization of the early pediatric kidney disease screening and early detection program in Davao City for appropriate action. CIO
