World Kidney Day: Goiás Clinics Promote Health & Early Diagnosis
Healthcare workers in Goiás, Brazil, conducted a week-long campaign focused on kidney health, offering free screenings and educational resources to patients and the public. The initiative, led by the Policlínica Estadual da Região Nordeste – Posse and the Policlínica Estadual da Região do Entorno – Formosa, aimed to raise awareness about prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of kidney diseases.
The campaign, which ran from March 10th to 14th, 2025, coincided with the observance of World Kidney Day on March 13th. This year’s theme, “Cuidar de pessoas e proteger o planeta: exame de urina e creatinina para todos” (Care for people and protect the planet: urine and creatinine tests for all), emphasized the importance of simple and accessible tests for identifying kidney dysfunction. Activities included lectures, group discussions, and practical exercises, fostering dialogue and highlighting the benefits of regular physical activity for individuals with chronic kidney disease.
Filipe Gadeia, the technical lead for the nephrology department in Posse, underscored the importance of public awareness. “The World Kidney Day campaign is an opportunity to deliver accessible information to the entire community,” Gadeia stated. “By encouraging simple tests like urine and creatinine analysis, we contribute to the early diagnosis of kidney diseases and improve the population’s quality of life. Educational actions also empower patients to take an active role in their own health.”
The campaign addressed key aspects of kidney disease, including understanding the condition and the importance of adhering to treatment plans. Information was also provided on risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes, stressing the need for regular medical check-ups and preventative screenings.
Amanda Thiele, a hemodialysis patient at the Posse Polyclinic, expressed her gratitude for the initiative. “Our lives are full of challenges and fears, and having a team that cares about our well-being makes all the difference,” Thiele said. “Participating in these moments of integration and care brings us support and joy. I am grateful for the team’s kindness and dedication.”
The Formosa Polyclinic has offered hemodialysis services since 2022, with a capacity of over 144 weekly sessions. The service operates Monday through Saturday, across three daily shifts, accommodating eight patients per shift, resulting in an average of 24 patients treated daily. The Posse Polyclinic currently serves 68 patients undergoing hemodialysis, performing more than 800 sessions per month. Established in 2021, it has become a regional referral center, serving patients from over 31 municipalities in the Nordeste II macro-region.
Both Polyclinics are also pioneers in offering peritoneal dialysis within the state network, providing an effective and more humane treatment option for patients with chronic kidney disease. Peritoneal dialysis is administered at the patient’s home, with continuous support from a multidisciplinary team, promoting greater autonomy and improved quality of life by reducing frequent trips to healthcare facilities. The Posse Polyclinic was the first unit to implement this service.