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Evans Duah advocates for point-of-care testing for kidney disease
•2 min read•1 source
Dr. Evans Duah of the Kidney Research Initiative Ghana has highlighted the critical role of point-of-care testing (POCT) in addressing the rising burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) across Africa. With approximately 13.7% of adults on the continent affected by the condition, the lack of accessible diagnostic services remains a major barrier to early intervention. Dr. Duah argues that shifting toward immediate, bedside testing could transform kidney health outcomes by enabling faster clinical assessments and earlier detection.
The implementation of POCT is particularly vital for underserved communities where traditional laboratory infrastructure is often scarce. By providing immediate results, these diagnostic tools allow healthcare providers to make timely decisions, potentially slowing the progression of the disease. However, the effectiveness of this approach relies on more than just the availability of devices; it requires seamless integration into existing healthcare pathways. Dr. Duah emphasises that diagnostic performance must be rigorously assessed to ensure reliability and accuracy across various clinical settings.
To successfully scale POCT, the research outlines several strategic priorities, including ensuring equitable access and establishing robust referral systems for patients who require specialist care after an initial screening. Furthermore, integrating kidney health screenings into broader chronic disease management programmes and exploring home-testing options could significantly broaden the reach of these services. Future efforts must focus on evaluating the cost-effectiveness and practicality of these interventions to ensure they are sustainable and impactful within African healthcare systems.
