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Over 20 million Nigerians are living with kidney disease and most of them do not know they have it. The major causes of chronic kidney disease are Diabetes and Hypertension. These diseases are increasing dramatically in Nigeria, in part due to the transition from traditional diet/foods to a Western diet/more processed foods.
At least 20,000 Nigerians each year get to the stage of kidney disease where they need dialysis 2 to 3 times a week or kidney transplant. Ninety-five percent of these people die each year in Nigeria because they cannot afford the cost of dialysis. About 60% of Nigerians live below the poverty line and the National Health Insurance Scheme does not cover patients with chronic kidney disease, so the cost of dialysis is entirely borne by the patients and their families.
The administrator of Madonna Hospital, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Nji, identified the need for dialysis treatments for indigent patients who cannot afford the full cost of dialysis treatments. The staff of Madonna Hospital in partnership with Rotary want to equip this Dialysis Center to serve the poor and needy patients at subsidized rates, along with patients who can pay the full amount for dialysis treatments.
The budget for this Global Grant is $81,957. These funds will purchase dialysis equipment, consumables and supplies for up to 30 patients monthly for a total of 18 months, a water treatment system, automated dry chemistry analyzer, solar power system, 2 air conditioners and a 4-year preventive maintenance contract.
Host Club members will assist with fundraising efforts. The Host Club will receive and manage the grant funds. The International Club members will oversee the delivery and installation of the dialysis equipment and engage with patients receiving dialysis treatments.
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