It is learnt that the incidence of kidney ailments and failures among Goans is alarmingly worsening with official data reportedly showing that at least three new patients are diagnosed per day.
Government officials have said that if blood sugar levels and blood pressure are not controlled in diabetes patients, it mainly affects the kidneys.
However the government should not shy away from responsibility. The quality of potable water supplied to the residents could also be responsible for the rising number of cases of kidney ailments and kidney failures, especially in Canacona where there has been a disturbing rise in the number of cases.
According to prominent citizens of the taluka, the main cause is the poor quality of water available in the area which is obtained from the Chapoli dam. The water is not treated properly at the Shristall treatment plant.
An old method is reportedly used to treat the water for the last several years and sometimes, the water is passed through the pipelines directly. It is learnt that water from the dam cannot be used for drinking. It should only be used for irrigation.
Dialysis is a lifesaving treatment for those with chronic kidney failure as it cleanses the blood. The Pradhan Mantri National dialysis Program aims to provide free dialysis services to the poor. Goa needs to have more dialysis centers in government hospitals to cater to the needs of the growing number of kidney patients.
