Kidney disease often develops quietly, with many people unaware they have the condition until it has already progressed. That is why early screening can make a life-changing difference. This National Kidney Month, Quezon City kidney screening efforts received a significant boost through a citywide initiative designed to help residents understand their kidney health before serious complications arise.
The Quezon City Government, together with Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc., officially launched the "Iwas Dialysis, Ligtas Kidneys: Get CheCKD habang maaga pa!" program on June 22, 2026. The initiative brings free kidney health services directly to communities, encouraging more Filipinos, especially those at higher risk, to undergo early screening and seek medical care when needed.
A Growing Need for Early Chronic Kidney Disease Detection
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) continues to be a major public health challenge in the Philippines. According to recent research, an estimated 13 million Filipinos, or around 11.2% of the population, are living with CKD, with many cases remaining undiagnosed until the disease has reached advanced stages.
Because kidney disease often shows few symptoms in its early phases, regular screening has become one of the most effective ways to slow its progression. Detecting CKD early allows patients to receive treatment sooner, helping lower the risk of kidney failure, dialysis, and other serious health complications.
More Than 8,000 Filipinos Have Already Benefited
The community-based program has steadily expanded across Quezon City, making kidney health services more accessible to residents.
More than 4,000 QCitizens participated in the official launch activities held at Quezon City Hall, where they received:
- Free kidney health screening
- Kidney disease risk assessment
- Patient counseling
- Health education sessions
- Interactive learning booths about kidney, heart, and metabolic health
Since the program began, over 8,000 individuals have completed kidney health screening and assessment. Nearly half of these participants came from Quezon City alone.
Initially rolled out across 21 barangays, primarily in District 1, the initiative has now expanded into District 2. Its pilot screening in Barangay Payatas alone reached more than 200 residents, further extending access to preventive healthcare services.
Understanding the Link Between Kidney, Heart, and Metabolic Health
One of the program's highlights was an educational session led by Dr. Anthony Russell Villanueva, a nephrologist from the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, who explained how kidney health is closely connected to heart disease, diabetes, and other metabolic conditions.
The session emphasized that individuals living with diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or those with a family history of kidney disease face a significantly higher risk of developing CKD. Early screening gives these individuals a better chance of managing the condition before irreversible kidney damage occurs.
Participants also listened to an inspiring personal testimony from CJ Luis of Dialysis PH Support Group, Inc., who shared firsthand experiences living with chronic kidney disease and encouraged others not to delay getting screened.
Community Partnerships Bring Preventive Healthcare Closer to Filipinos
Speaking during the launch, Dr. Bin Wang, General Manager of Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), highlighted the importance of pairing public awareness with accessible healthcare services.
"National Kidney Month reminds us that awareness must go hand in hand with access to screening and preventive care. Through Iwas Dialysis, Ligtas Kidneys, we aim to empower QCitizens to better understand their kidney health and take timely action when needed."
Meanwhile, Augusto Muench, Global Head of Sustainability at Boehringer Ingelheim, emphasized that investing in disease prevention helps both individuals and healthcare systems thrive.
"Advancing sustainability means enabling individuals and communities to live healthier lives. When people are supported to prevent or better manage chronic conditions, they are better able to pursue opportunities, while healthcare systems are strengthened through a shift toward prevention and early intervention."
Quezon City Reinforces Its Commitment to Preventive Healthcare
Quezon City Mayor Josefina "Joy" Belmonte reaffirmed the city's commitment to making preventive healthcare services more accessible for every resident.
"Early screening of high-risk individuals can significantly delay chronic disease progression. Here in Quezon City, we are committed to our shared advocacy of healthy kidneys, good kidney health, and, of course, early detection and prevention. Together, I know that we will bring Quezon City one step closer to a future where each QCitizen is healthy and ready to embrace their fullest potential."
The event concluded with a symbolic commitment ceremony involving representatives from the local government, healthcare professionals, patient organizations, and Boehringer Ingelheim, reinforcing their shared goal of improving kidney disease awareness and encouraging earlier intervention within communities.
Prioritize Your Kidney Health Before Symptoms Appear
Kidney disease does not always come with early warning signs, making routine health checks more important than many people realize. For those living with diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, or a family history of kidney disease, regular screening can help detect problems before they become life-threatening.
Initiatives like "Iwas Dialysis, Ligtas Kidneys: Get CheCKD habang maaga pa!" show how community partnerships can make preventive healthcare more accessible while empowering Filipinos to take charge of their long-term well-being. Sometimes, one simple health check today can make all the difference for tomorrow.