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EVENTS ORGANIZED ON WORLD KIDNEY DAY 9 MARCH 2006
ALBANIA 
Albanian Society of Nephrology
March 9, 2006 the Albanian Society of Nephrology envisages holding a national conference in Tirana on the latest developments in Nephrology inviting all Albanian nephrologists (60 doctors) as well as many others. Wide coverage on different TV channels here in Albania is expected. Media campaigns will be organized as well as a campaign to encourage general practitioners to measure creatininemia and proteinuria
Enquiries: Professor Alketa Kroshi, Email: alketak@albmail.com, Phone: +355 -69-2690838
AUSTRALIA 
Kidney Health Australia
Pre-recorded interviews with nephrologists, issued as a web podcast on World Kidney Day
Launch of the Australian Costing of the Burden of Kidney Disease
Meeting with Australian Commonwealth Government health representatives on issues around kidney disease
Enquiries: Lisa Fletcher, Email lisa.fletcher@kidney.org.au or phone +61 3 9674 4300
World Kidney Day Patient Forum will be held in Canberra, Australia on March 9 2006
Subjects covered will be depression and kidney disease, nocturnal dialysis and sexuality and kidney disease
Enquiries: Janine Bevan janine.bevan@kidney.org.au or phone +61 2 6278 6510
BANGLADESH 
North East Medical College Hospital, Department of Nephrology
In collaboration with the National Kidney Foundation, Sylhet Branch, a rally was organized on March 9, 2006 to create awareness about kidney disease. To observe the occasion of the first WKD, a motivational program was also organized for our healthcare staff and Physicians.
The region of Sylhet is situated in the north-east region of Bangladesh spanning an area of 3489 km2, with a population of 4 million. The number of patients suffering from CKD is greater in this area than any other district.
Our Unit, the Nephrology and Dialysis Unit at the private medical college - the North East Medical College Hospital - is the first to operate within the Sylhet region, and is currently setting up a CKD surveillance program.
Enquiries: Dr. Md. Nazmul Islam, Assistant Professor, Email: nemch@sol-bd.com, Department of Nephrology, North East Medical College Hospital, Sylhet, Bangladesh.
Bangladesh Renal Association
March 8 - A press conference was also arranged on behalf of Renal Association
March 9 - World Kidney Day (WKD) was observed in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh by the Bangladesh Renal Association in collaboration with the Bangladesh Association of Urological Surgeons,the Kidney Trust and Kidney Foundation and the Paeditric Nephrology Society of Bangladesh. The Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of the Peoples Republic of Bangladesh inaugurated the convention at a local auditorium in Dhaka. About 400 participants from primary care physicians, nurses & public attended the inauguration. The program highlighted the need for prevention of chronic kidney diseases in Bangladesh. The Kidney Foundation & BSMMU has already organized a program for early detection & treatment of chronic kidney diseases in some villages and a nation-wide program will be undertaken gradually. A separate seminar was also arranged by National Institute of Kidney Diseases and Urology (NIKDU) and the Bangladesh Kidney Foundation.
All programs were highlighted by National Television and daily news papers.
A walkathon was also arranged in the early morning attracting a high number of doctors, nurses & and members of the general public bearing festoons regarding need for early detection and prevention of chronic kidney diseases.
Thousands of posters were circulated inside and outside Dhaka and a television talk show was also organized by doctors.
Enquiries: Prof. Harun Ur Rashid, Professor and Chairman, Dept. of Nephrology, BSMMU, President, the Bangladesh Renal Association,
Enquiries: Dr. Samina Sharmin, Email: sumubd@yahoo.com
BRAZIL 
Brazilian Society of Nephrology
National Kidney Disease Prevention Program
http://www.sbn.org.br/eventos/semana2006.htm
Several activities promoting prevention of kidney disease will be developed (urine screening tests; hypertension and diabetes detection as part of kidney disease campaign; folders, theater shows and booklets with simplified histories about kidney diseases for orientation of the population; talks about kidney disease prevention for the general public and health professionals; call for the participation of patients, other specialists and media
Enquiries: Professor Gianna Mastroianni Kirsztajn, Email: giannamk@uol.com.br or phone +55-11-55791242
Brazilian Society of Nephrology - State of Minas Gerais
Our activities will include: educating our local community health authorities, informing all local media (TV, newspapers, radio) about this important day and the reasons behind this join ISN and IFKF initiative. We are planning take blood pressure, dosing creatinine and ananmese in a public venue based in five cities of Minas Gerais. We also propose to partner with health public health authorities to open a central ambulatory with multidisciplinary staff for the detection and prevention patients with CKD.
Enquiries: Jose Augusto Meneses da Silva, Email: jmeneses@lithocentro.com.br
Federal University of Juiz de Fora (MG)
Following the theme of early detection and prevention, activities to mark the inauguration of World Kidney Day, Mach 9 will include:
Teaching staff in nephrology and university students will be organizing TV and radio interviews with the local community; measuring blood pressure, and carrying out serum creatinine (glomerular filtration rate estimate) and other serum tests a to evaluate CKD.
Enquiries: Dr. Luiz Carlos Andrade, Email: lcandrad@terra.com.br
Refer to Pro-Renal Foundation website for promotions and activities to celebrate World Kidney Day in Curitiba Parana Brazil
Enquires: Dr Miguel Riella, Email: mcriella@pro-renal.org.br or phone +55-41-342 5849
BULGARIA 
Bulgarian Society of Nephrology
Our Society strongly supports all initiatives concerning both the inaugural and future World Kidney Days to come.
Initial activities planned for WKD 2006 will include the organization of a Press Conference on the problems of prevention and treatment of chronic kidney diseases in Bulgaria. This will take place March 9, in Sofia. The President of our Society, Prof. Pencho Simeonov will also give an interview on the radio.
Enquiries: Professor Boriana Kiperova, Vice-President, the Bulgarian Society of Nephrology, Email: bkiperova@yahoo.com
Dialysis Section of the Bulgarian Society of Nephrology and Bulgarian Kidney Association
World Kidney Day activities include:
- A National Press Conference on March 9 in Sofia with a panel of 10 Bulgarian nephrologists, representatives from the Ministry of Health and the National Health Insurance Fund, with more than 25 invited journalists
- Local press conferences will take place in 5 Bulgarian cities
Enquiries: Assoc. Professor Stefan Krivoshiev, Email: stkriv@yahoo.com
BURMA 
Myanmar Medical Association
Given that preventing ESRD is essential for patients as well as society at large – especially for developing countries such as Burma – the Myanmar Medical Association will host a special symposium in Mandalay March 9, themed "WORLD KIDNEY DAY for Prevention of ESRD: the role of the primary care physician". This will be chaired by the Head of Department of Medicine, Dept. of Medicine, University of Medicine, Mandalay. 150-200 physicians and general practitioners are expected to attend
Enquiries: Dr. K. M Htay, Head of Department of Nephrology, Mandalay General Hospital, Mandalay, Burma, Email: htay@mail4u.com.mm
CHINA 
Chinese Society of Nephrology (CSN)
On March 9, 2006, the Chinese Society of Nephrology (CSN) held a solemn and impressive news conference in Beijing for the official launch of the World Kidney Day in China. Professor Xiangmei Chen, President of CSN, announced “World Kidney Day” to directly appeal to the general public to be aware of chronic kidney diseases (CKD) and associated cardiovascular diseases.
Qide Han, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) sent a congratulatory letter. Xiaohong Chen, Deputy Minister of Chinese Ministry of Health, Nanshan Zhong, Chairman of Chinese Medical Association, and other officials gave speeches to general physicians from over sixty hospitals in Beijing, patient representatives, and journalists from over thirty media units. Furthermore, two Councillors of the International Society of Nephrology, Professor Haiyan Wang and Shanyan Lin, also expressed their warm support for the meeting.
In support of CSN’s “World Kidney Day” announcement, activities took place on March 9, throughout China, including public lectures and a free service from physicians and nephrology specialists.
CSN will launch a study on the epidemics of nephrology in China in order to achieve early prevention of CKD by controlling diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, smoking, and strive to treat patients with slight to moderate CKD as early as possible. The “World Kidney Day” activities and subsequent measures will surely promote the understanding and knowledge of CKD from the Chinese government, society, and the whole public, raising both awareness and increasing treatment of CKD to achieve a major reduction in the burden of kidney and cardiovascular disease in China.
Enquiries: Xiangmei Chen, President, Chinese Society of Nephrology, Department of Nephrology, General Hospital of PLA, Fuxing Road 28, Beijing 100853, P.R.China, phone: + 86-10-66935462, Fax: + 86-10-68130297, E-mail: xmchen@public.bta.net.cn
Southeast University, Institute of Nephrology
Our Institute has organized a series of activities to raise the public concern and awareness about the threat of CKD. Almost all the media in our city have published the data provided by the ISN and IFKF.
For March 9, we have organized a public lecture together with the city’s Center for Disease Control. All the television stations in Nanjing will broadcast this information to the public. We have also organized for nephrologists to talk to the public face to face. A website for CKD has also been set up in Chinese. We hope that initiatives such as these will begin to make the general public realize that CKD can be detected and prevented if we detect it earlier.
Enquiries: Professor Liu Bi-Cheng, Head, the Institute of Nephrology, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China, Email: liubc64@yahoo.com.cn
CUBA 
Cuban Society of Nephrology has contacted 47 nephrology centers, national media and will present primary results of three different research programs on detection and intervention of CRD. March 9 will be celebrated through various informative workshops
Enquiries: Dr. Jorge P. Alfonzo Guerra, Email: docimef@infomed.sld.cu or phone: + 53-7-8813968, phone/fax: + 53-7-8812413
CZECH REPUBLIC 
Czech Society of Nephrology
February 22 – The Czech Society of Nephrology organized and hosted the Czech Day of Nephrology, with a highly representative group of 50 nephrologists focusing on prevention and risk factors in nephrology.
Enquiries: Professor Vladimír Teplan, Czech Day of Nephrology Organizer, Email: vlte@medicon.cz
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 
Dominican Society of Nephrology
The WKD Slogan of our Society: 9 de Marzo. Dia Mundial del Riñón. Por Una Estrategia de Salud Renal para los Dominicanos
March 9 – Our Society will be organizing a special conference for doctors at the Dominican Medical College
March 9 – The Dominican Association of Renal and Transplant Patients is organizing a WKD march at Malecon Street - Santo Domingo city
March 9 - Interviews on TV and Radio regarding the burden of Kidney Diseases
March 10 – A conference will be held at the Children Hospital Robert Reid Cabral, Santo Domingo City.
Reports in nationals newspapers about Kidney Diseases, Hypertension and Diabetes
Enquiries: Dr. Emilio Mena Castro, President, the Dominican Society of Nephrology, Email: emilio.mena@verizon.net.do
ECUADOR 
Instituto Ecuatoriano de Diálisis y Trasplantes (IEDYT S.A.)
To be held in Guayaquil, the Ecuadorian Institute of Dialysis and Transplants has organized a special meeting convening sanitary and health authorities as well as university professors.
Press Releases have also been circulated to local media (Television and periodicals), in order to disseminate the general concept of Renal Health and Preventative Cardiorenal Medicine. Posters have also been displayed in both private and public Medical Centers
Enquiries: Dr. Ricardo Ortiz San Martín, IEDYT S.A., Calle Angel Barrera y Miguel H. Alcívar (Kennedy Norte), Email: xortiz@iedyt.com, info@iedyt.com , or phone +59-342683601
EGYPT 
Benha University, Department of Internal Medicine and Nephrology Unit
In celebration of World Kidney Day posters themed, “PUT PREVENTION OF KIDNEY DISEASE IN EGYPT INTO PRACTICE” have been displayed around the University Hospital and high risk populations have been invited for simple urine testing for the early detection of kidney disease.
Enquiries: Professor El Metwally El Shahawy, Head of Internal Medicine and Nephrology Unit, Benha University, Egypt, Email: elshahawy@hotmail.com
Egyptian Society of Nephrology
World Kidney Day, March 9 2006 coincided with the Egyptian Society of Nephrology’s General Assembly and Board Elections. During the various meetings the Society pledged to organize a World Kidney Day scientific event each year, with particular emphasis on CKD prevention strategies.
Announced on WKD, Professor Tarek ElBaz was consequently appointed as both Vice President of the Egyptian Society of Nephrology, as well as President of the National Kidney Foundation Egypt.
Enquires: Professor Tarek ElBaz, M.D., Professor of Internal Medicine and Nephrology, Al Azhar University, 11, Falky Square, Cairo, Egypt, Phone: + 202 – 3932861, Email: dr_t_elbaz@hotmail.com
EUROPE 
European Kidney Patients' Federation (ceAPIR)
The Federation has promoted the event throughout its member associations and encouraged them to be an active part of the First World Kidney Day.
In many countries, the member associations are active. Others will provide support in 2007. All member associations are extremely positive about the creation of a World Kidney Day, and its core purpose.
CEAPIR looks forward to becoming a part in the ISN / IFKF work preparing the future World Kidney Days.
Knud Erben, President
GUATEMALA 
Fundanier
Friday, March 10. Four Members of the Guatemalan Society of Nephrology gave a special lecture on “Prevention of Kidney Diseases” general practitioners working in the rural area of GUATEMALA (North, South, East, West). 100 Doctors participated
March 12 - A World Kidney Day race was organized – “The first race for the Kidneys: healthier children, healthier Guatemala” as well as educating children from 12 Elementary Schools regarding Renal Health (students from the school of nutrition helped with this). After the race, 400 people – both children and adults, were screened (urine analysis, haemoglobin, blood pressure and BMI) .The children participated in a drawing contest entitled “Healthier Children, Healthier Guatemala”. 12 drawings will be selected for the FUNDANIER´s 2007 calendar. Children will be invited to participate at the Race for the Kidney:
HONG KONG 
Hong Kong Society of Nephrology
Sunday, March 12
Proposal of an official World Kidney Day Walk on March 12, a Sunday, to encourage and allow health care professionals to join the event
INDIA 
Central India Kidney Foundation
The March 9 Central India Kidney Foundation Public Awareness Program
Conducted at Orange City Hospital and Research Centre, Nagpur the following topics were discussed and addressed with the general public:
Symptoms of kidney diseases - Dr. Mrs Devyani Buche (Consultant Physician)
Symptomatology of kidney stones, prevention and treatment – Dr. Rajesh Soni, Urosurgeon
Healthy diet and diet in hypertension and diabetes - Mrs Rita Bhargava (Dietician)
Prevention and management of Kidney Diseases – Dr. Shivnarayan Acharya ( Nephrologist )
The program began at 3 pm and closed 6 pm that evening, during which time all kidney donors (our program is a live related kidney transplantation program) were congratulated by Shri UdayBhaskar Nair, Chief Medical Director of the Orange City Hospital and Research Centre
The Central India kidney Foundation has also recently organised a drawing and painting competition for children of patients suffering from kidney diseases and two children belonging to a patient of kidney failure have been selected for educating. We have also helped a poor transplant patient for cataract surgery
An article in a newspaper was also published about prevention of kidney diseases.
Photo of kidney donors meeting together on World Kidney Day
Enquiries: Dr. S.J.Acharya, Honorary Secretary, Central India Kidney Foundation, Email: shibu_acharya@yahoo.co.in
Enquiries: Dr NP Singh, Email: nanu_singh@yahoo.com or phone +91 11 2307 3637 Maulana Azad Medical College and associated Lok Nayak Hospital New Delhi, India
Indian Society of Nephrology
The President of the Indian Society of Nephrology has called for countrywide observation of World Kidney Day. All major cities and many smaller cities in India are observing it.
- The countrywide programme has been planned in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad and many other smaller cities and kidney specialists are going to undertake following activities on March 9
- Morning programme of public lectures in hospitals
- Mid day public rallies and road shows with banners across the country
- Evening programme of public lectures and interaction with people in large gatherings
- Tele medicine, television talk and newspaper write-ups are being organised at various places
- The ISN aims to draw the attention of the public, health administrators, physicians and other health professionals on how to prevent and control diabetes, hypertension infection and stone disease.
- It is appealing to government, health planners and media to spend more time and resources on health education and provide essential drugs to people who need the most. We have urged the government to introduce a national screening for proteinuria, diabetes, hypertension in all primary health centers, and district HQ hospitals and medical colleges of India.
Enquiries: S.C. Dash, President, Indian Society of Nephrology, Dept. of Nephrology,
AIIMS, New Delhi. FAX : 91-11-26588641, 26588663 E-mail: scdash@rediffmail.com
Institute of Nova Kidney Foundation
The Institute of Nova Kidney Foundation is celebrating World Kidney Day by organizing and hosting awareness programs for health professionals all over Kerala, promoting early detection and prevention of CKD.
Enquiries: Dr. Karunan Kannompoyilil, Director of the Institute of Nova Kidney Foundation (INKF) MRA-58, Vijaya Vihar, Madathuvila Lane, Medical College P.O., Thiruvananthapuram-695 011 Kerala India.
Email: poyilil@dataone.in, seethaprakash@eth.net or phone +91 471 2551834
Kidney Hospital & Urological Research Centre, Jalandhar (Punjab)
The Kidney Hospital & Urological Research Centre, Jalandhar (Punjab), in association with the Punjab Medical Foundation Charitable Trust (an N.G.O.), will support and further the cause of the inaugural World Kidney Day through the following activities aimed at early detection and prevention of CKD:
- March 9 – the official launch of a World Kidney Day awareness program presenting a talk themed “Chronic Kidney Disease – its early detection and prevention”
- March 9 – a press conference will be held to communicate with local media
- March 9 – April 9 – a free screening camp will be set up aimed at screening patients considered to be at high risk of kidney disease. This facility will be advertised in local newspapers to ensure maximized exposure
- Special posters will be designed and displayed in places such as the Lions Club, Gymkhana Club, Golf Clubs, Banks and around our hospital
- April 10 – onwards, we hope to expand our activities to peripheral towns of Jalandhar. The objective is to cover the whole of the Punjab State within one year.
WKD Promotional Pack:
- Card for Doctors
- Design for Banner 1
- Design for Banner 2
- Design for Memento
- Design for Paper Insert
- Design for Souvenirs
- Invitation Press
- Letter for Doctors
- Newspaper Advertisements
- Poster for Sarpanches Village Heads
- Poster for Selected Places
- Press Release
- Third Mail 11 March 2006
- Third Mail 11 March 2006
Enquiries: Dr. R. S. Chahal, Medical Director, Email: kidneyhospital@yahoo.com or phone +91-181-2440252/2272236, fax +91-181-2464666
Madras Medical College & Government General Hospital
The Madras Medical College is a premier Institute in Asia With more than 2000 beds. The department of Nephrology has 50 beds and carries out between 250-300 Haemodialysis procedures and 4 renal transplantations (living related transplantation), every month. The College also organizes an annual Postgraduate Training Program (2 candidates are recruited every year)
To mark the launch of WKD March 9, 2006, we conducted a CME Program for our Medical Faculty and Postgraduates covering the following key topics:
- Burden of CKD in India
- Early detection and prevention of progression of CKD
- Dialysis Therapy
- Renal Transplantation
We also organized a public awareness program on CKD. This proved extremely successful with more than 100 individuals attending which included the general public, patients and healthcare professionals. Books entitled "Know your Kidneys" and "Diet in Renal Disease" in Tamil were also published on the same day for the benefit of the general public and renal patients.
Coverage in Padham Health News
Enquiries: Dr. Matcha Jayakumar, Email: mjk_mmc@yahoo.co.in, Professor and Head, Department of Nephrology, Madras Medical College & Government General Hospital, Chennai, 600 003, India.
Mallya Hospital, Bangalore
To celebrate the first ever WKD, March 9 2006, we organized an awareness campaign specifically targeted to Bangalore Water Supply Board Employees. Screening was carried out as well as clinical examinations, blood and urine tests.
The total number of individuals screened was 79. 88.6% of our subjects are male and our findings showed the following:
Diabetes 23 individuals
Hypertension 15 individuals
Diabetes and Hypertension 8 individuals
10 of our subjects are smokers and 19 are consumers of alcohol. 20 individuals also showed mild related symptoms. Clinically individuals weighed an average of 71.5 kg, average SBP was 128mm of Hg and average DBP was 84mm of Hg. Almost 7 subjects had renal dysfunction among which two of them had moderate renal dysfunction and the rest mild renal dysfunction. Five had proteinuria and two among them had hypertension. Furthter tests will be carried out for the high risk groups and follow up.
Enquiries: Dr. Manoharan Bhimaraj, former ISN Fellow and Consultant Neprhologist, Email: umamanoy2k@yahoo.co.in, Mallya Hospital, Bangalore, India.
Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), Nephrology Division, Dept. of Medicine
To mark World Kidney Day we will be organizing a public awareness programme for understanding the kidney diseases, their prevention and treatment in lay terms. The programme will be held at our college auditorium where citizens of Delhi, patients and their relatives, and family physicians are invited to join an interactive session. This will be followed by a march to India Gate, where HON. Lieutenant Governor of Delhi and other members of the Indian Society of Nephrology will address the gathering.
Enquiries: Dr. Ravinder Ahlawat, Chief Nephrologist, Email: ahlawat.ravi@gmail.com
March 9-12 2006
Venue: Walchand Hirachand Hall, 'Indian Merchants’ Chamber, IMC Marg, IMC Building, Churchgate Mumbai
10.30 am to 4.30 pm
Public Awareness of Chronic Kidney Diseases - continuous stream video - main Railway Stations
2.30 pm to 4.30 pm
Seminar on Chronic Kidney Disease and its Prevention for Medical Practitioners
1. S P. Jain Auditorium (Bombay Hospital) and 2. Nanavati Hospital Auditorium, Mumbai
6.30 pm to 8.30 pm
Awareness program for the general public
- Know your Kidneys/ Common Kidney Problems
- Value of early detection of kidney problems in Diabetes and High Blood Pressure
- The importance of making "World Kidney Day" an Indian National theme, and its relevance
Venue: Bandra West, Mumbai Time: March 9, 2006 9 am to 5 pm
Free Kidney Checkup Camp - part of the SEEK Prevention Program
Continuous kidney checks and evaluation of risk of kidney disease, open invitation
Enquiries: Colonel Satnam Singh, Email: satnam38@hotmail.com or phone +91 (22) 2281 4892 / 7914 FAD Centre, Under Flyover, "E" Road, Marine Drive, Mumbai - 400 002
Rajkot
The Savani Kidney Hospital plans many activities for March 9, including:
- A patient educational programme will be held in an auditorium: we will guide the patient for further management of CRF and prevention of chronic kidney disease by regular control of hypertension, diabetes and early detection of renal dysfunction.
- Free check ups of hypertension, diabetes and renal dysfunction in the busiest area of the city.
- Free dialysis for needy patients.
- Distribution of press releases to local newspapers.
Enquiries: Dr. Divyesh Viroja, MD, DNB, DM (Nephro) (Goldmedalist), B. T. Savani Kidney Hospital, Rajkot, India, Tel: 91 281 2562299, 91 281 2562217, Fax: 91 281 2561292, Email: divyeshviroja@yahoo.co.in
Suretech Hospital
March 9 – the Suretech Hospital organized a public awareness program, a lecture and an audio-visual presentation for the healthcare workers and a health camp to detect early diabetic and hypertensive kidney disease, in Nagpur, which is situated near Bombay in India.
Our hospital has a fully equipped Nephrology and Renal Transplant Unit carrying out live related and cadaveric renal transplants. The other hospital which participated in this activity was the state operated super-speciality hospital from where the staff along with the Head of the Nephrology Department , Dr. V. I. Gupta, were actively involved in spreading the message of early detection of renal diseases on this first ever world kidney day.
A fully detailed account of the program along with photographs will soon be available.
Enquiries: Dr. Sameer Chaubey MD; DNB(Nephro)Consultant Nephrologist, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India, Email: sameerchaubey@yahoo.com
IRAN 
Iranian Society of Nephrology
March 9 – an overview of WKD activities
A special Television interview on channel 3 of Iranian National TV was broadcasted to announce World Kidney Day, with the following individuals:
Mrs.Fatemeh Hashemi , President of Charity Foundation for Special Diseases
Ali Nobakht Haghighi,M.D. Prof.of Medicine Shahid Behshti University School of Medicine, Secretary of Iran's Academy of Medical Sciences, Secretary of Iranian Society of Nephrology and Secretary of Iranian Society of Organ Transplantation
Engineer Akbar Torkan General Manager of Pars Oil and Gas Company
Maryam Shahrokh,M.D. from Iran's University of Medical Sciences
Ezzat Abdi,M.D., Treasurer of Iranian Society of Nephrology
Seid Mohammad Tagh Hosseini Tabatabaiee,M.D., Pediatric Nephrologist,
Past President of Sistan Balouchestan University of Medicine
Mohammad Reza Ganji,M.D.,Associate Prof.of Medicine, Tehrtan University
of Medicine
Javad Kian,M.D., Manager of Medical Center for Special Diseases
Mrs.Hashemi welcomed the audience and assured support of her organization for the cause of World Kidney Day. Behrooz Broumand,M.D., President of the Iranian Society of Nephrology announced that following the World Health Organization’s declaration that by 2015 there will be 36 millions death from non-communicable diseases, the ISN and IFKF have consequently named every second Thursday of March to be World Kidney day in order to draw attention to this important problem and for early detection and prevention of kidney diseases and renal failure.
All participants discussed the different causes of Renal Failure and towards the end of the broadcast Dr.Ali Nobakht announced the plan for establishing a polycystic kidney disease foundation and Dr.Kian announced the inauguration of a "Charity Fair" to collect funds for the early detection of renal failure . Several informative booklets were distributed concerning diet in CRF and Tx.
The committee announced that it will continue to expand efforts for the prevention of kidney failure.
Coverage in the Persian Newspaper "Etelaat" reporting on the shortage of renal replacemet therapy in Iran and promoting early detection of renal failure and prevention of ESRD in order to decrease the demand for therapy.
Hamshahri Daily Newspaper - World Kidney Day article
Enquiries: Dr. Behrooz Broumand, President Iranian Society of Nephrology, Email: broumand@ams.ac.ir
Charity Foundation for Special Diseases (CFSD)
The Charity Foundation for special diseases in Iran proudly celebrated the inauguration of the first Sport Federation of Special Diseases and Organ Transplantation in the world on this special day. The President of CFSD will be elected by the members as the first Chair of the Sports Federation. This Federation will manage sport activities among athletes suffering from special diseases especially for those who are recipients of kidney transplants at both the national and international levels. Secondly, the federation has organized a series of sporting activities among 185 patients who are recipients of kidney transplants. The competition took place from March 9 - 12, 2006 in Kerman in 8 different fields. The winners will be nominated for next year’s international sport competitions in Thailand and Turkey.
The Foundation also arranged a scientific seminar on March 9, focusing on "Special Diseases and Sports". During this seminar, experts in kidney diseases presented the latest information in the field to raise public awareness. The CFSD will strive to hold such events in international level.
Enquiries: Dr. F. Ebrahimi, International Affairs, CFSD, Email: ia@cffsd.org
ISRAEL 
Israel Society of Nephrology
In partnership with the Israel Society of Family Practitioners - promoting the advancement of early detection and management of CKD - the country has been divided into regions and in each, one nephrologist and one FP will be responsible for co-ordinating activities in their respective regions. World Kidney Day initiatives will consist of lectures, visits to individual family group practices and model case presentations. A joint presentation illustrating a hypothetical type 2 diabetic in whom kidney disease and evolution of CV risk factors is now regularly used in Jerusalem for teaching purposes in preparation for the FP Boards. This presentation has been adopted by the Israel Society of Nephrology as a national teaching tool.
Enquiries: Dr. Itzchak N. Slotki, Head, Division of Adult Nephrology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, PO Box 3235, Jerusalem 91031, ISRAEL, Email: islotki@szmc.org.il or phone: +972-(0)2-6555085, fax:+972-(0)2-655-5700
ITALY 
Fondazione Italiana del Rene Onlus in collaboration with the Italian Society of Nephrology
Italian World Kidney Day
A WKD Countdown - Click to download an organizer’s diary for a World Kidney Day throughout Italy.
Numerous activities including screening were organized to promote early detection and prevention of kidney diseases, as well as the creation of a special poster and brochure that were widely distributed to 658 Italian Nephrology/Dialysis Units.
An overview of March 9, World Kidney Day throughout Italy
A Commemorative Album - Posters, Photos and Press
Enquiries: Professor Vittorio E. Andreucci - President, FIR Onlus firandreucci@yahoo.it or phone +39 081 556 2922, or the President WKD Committee Mr. Francesco Rossa
Italian Society of Nephrology
The Italian Society of Nephrology in collaboration with the Italian Kidney Foundation, the Association of Dialysis and Transplant Patients and the D'Amico Foundation organized the following key activities:
- National Press Conference in Campidoglio - Rome
- Posters and brochures to alert the population on the prevention of kidney disease have been widely distributed by the 910 nephrology and dialysis centers. Key messages included promoting blood pressure measurement, urinalysis screening, serum creatinine dosage and kidney ultrasonography in high risk subjects (adults > 60 years, overweight, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, previous renal disease, abuse of anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Interviews with nephrologists on local and national broadcasting channels
- Out-patient units open for renal disease screening
- Locally organized events the Italian renal units
- A special poster for preventive nephrology and lifestyle was published in the National newspaper "Corriere della Sera" (3 million readers)
Everyone participated with great enthusiasm to make the World Kidney Day in Italy successful.
Enquiries: F. Paolo Schena, President of the Italian Society of Nephrology
E-mail: nefrologia@sin-italy.org
San Bortolo Hospital
Vicenza, Italy
Many activities have been planned in Vicenza to celebrate World Kidney Day including:
- Gazebos and TV shows in the whole province of Vicenza. The major of the city will measureblood pressure under the palladian basilica.
- Free blood pressure measurements and brochures on kidney function and kidney diseases in order to promote knowledge and information on kidney function and problems
- A 5-city tour where gazebos have been prepared with my staff and nurses placed in every main square.
- Article in the local newspaper on World Kidney Day
Photo Listing March 9, 2006
1-6 Vincenza - ISN fellows measuring blood pressure at the gazebo with the Mayor measuring blood pressure
7-8 Arzignano - At the gazebo with our nurses
9-10 The gazebo in Valdagno
11-14 Active in Schio - thanks to the contribution of Dr. Axia
Enquiries: Claudio Ronco, MD, Director, Dep. Nephrology Dialysis & Transplantation, San Bortolo Hospital, Viale Rodolfi 37, 36100 Vicenza – Italy, Tel. +39 0444 753869 Fax +39 0444 753949, E-mail: cronco@goldnet.it
JAPAN 
Japanese Society of Nephrology (JSN)
World Kidney Day Report - March 9 and beyond.
Enquiries: Seiichi Matsuo, MD, PhD, Head, Task Force for Japan CKD Initiative of JSN, Professor, Department of Nephrology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Division Head of Nephrology, Nagoya University Hospita, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan, Email: smatsuo@med.nagoya-u.ac.jp, Phone: +81-52-744-2182 Fax: +81-52-744-2184.
JORDAN 
Jordan Society of Nephrology
March 14 – To celebrate this first World Kidney Day, the Jordan Society of Nephrology has organized a special meeting to convene a highly representative group of radiologist and cardiologists to exchange insight and knowledge addressing the serious problem of CKD. The talk will be given by Dr. Maan Al Haddid on Preventive Measures to Combat the Ever Increasing Incidence of Renal Failure following Contrast Use and Abuses (Contrast Induced Nephropathy).
Enquiries: Dr. Riyad Said, MD, FACP, FASN, President, the Jordan Society of Nephrology, Email: rsaid@go.com.jo
LITHUANIA 
Lithuanian Association of Nephrology, Dialysis, and Transplantation
We were very impressed when few weeks ago we received the information about the first ever World Kidney Day - an exciting initiative led by the ISN and IFKF. We are all aware of the tremendous and persistent increase in the number of patients requiring Renal Replacement Therapy. In Lithuania over the last 10 years the number of HD patients has risen by 6 (226 to 1325) and almost half of these patients were late refferals. This demonstrates the urgent need to educate the medical community followed by implementation of prevention of chronic kidney diseases.
Lithuanian Association of Nephrology, Dialysis, and Transplantation – proactivity to-date:
- Since 2004 every four months we organize educational conferences (6-8 lectures) for GPs in different Lithuanian cities. The main topics include early detection and the prevention of chronic kidney diseases
- Our Association promotes the practical recommendations of CKD risk factors, detection, prevention, etc., which we prepared according to KDOQI guidelines
- The Nephrology Clinic of Kaunas Medical University – activities that marked March 9, World Kidney Day:
- A special lecture on CKD early detection and prevention for the Internal Disease Department (around 60 physicians from the Cardiology, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Pulmonology, Hematology, Oncology Clinics) and internal disease residents (around 30)
- A special lecture on CKD followed by direct talks with 9 General practitioners from different Lithuanian cities to attend a 2-week nephrology course
- An article for the general public about CKD (following recommendations on the WKD website) in the main newspaper “Kauno diena” of the city Kaunas (the second largest Lithuanian city)
- An article for the healthcare professionals about CKD in the newspaper “Ave vita” of the Kaunas University of Medicine.
All these activities are only the beginning to improve outcomes of patients with CKD. We will continue our activities at our University as well as through the Lithuanian Association of Nephrology, Dialysis, Transplantation‘s Network and conisider plans to develop this program in the future.
We look forward to further recommendations from ISN and IFKF, which always are very comprehensive and useful.
Enquiries: Prof. Vytautas Kuzminskis, Chief of Nephrology Clinic, Kaunas University of Medicine, Email: nefrologijos.klinika@kmuk.lt
MALAYSIA 
National Kidney Foundation of Malaysia
Over the past 36 years the National Kidney Foundation of Malaysia has attempted to promote the importance of preventing kidney disease by creating awareness on ‘Kidney Health’ nationwide.
Kidney Disease and Kidney Failure is an escalating problem in Malaysia today. More than 1,200 people are undergoing dialysis today and this number is increasing by nearly 2,500 each year. Diabetes and Hypertension are the number one risk factors for these diseases and they account for about 54% of those people with Kidney Failure.
The National Kidney Foundation of Malaysia in its effort to decrease and overcome this problem has initiated an opportunistic screening to detect those with risk factors and early kidney disease with the aim of educating and treating patients early before progression to chronic kidney disease and kidney failure.
The National Kidney Foundation of Malaysia is currently conducting an ongoing opportunistic health screening for Kidney Disease, Diabetes and Hypertension at all its Nationwide 19 NKF Dialysis Centres. The health screening is ongoing until 2006, whereby health screening is conducted every alternate Sundays from 8.00am-12.00 noon. Please visit our website for further information. www.nkf.org.my
Working in collaboration with the Malaysian Society of Nephrology (MSN) the National Kidney Foundation of Malaysia will be celebrating World Kidney Day on March 9, 2006 at the Main Auditorium, Hospital Kuala Lumpur. This event will include the official launch of World Kidney Day by the Parliamentary Secretary for the Malaysia Ministry of Health, Yang Berhormat Datuk Lee Kah Choon. The 2 days of activities will include a public education forum and free health screening for kidney disease available from 10 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 7pm on the 9th and 10th March 2006.
World Kidney Day Promotional Flyer
Enquiries: NATIONAL KIDNEY FOUNDATION OF MALAYSIA, No. 70, Jalan 14/29, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.Shim Ying Ying, Health Programme Executive, Public Education Unit, National Kidney Foundation , Email: edu@nkf.org.my, or phone:+ 603-7954 9048 (ext 242) , Fax:+ 603- 7957 7328, Website: www.nkf.org.my
Malaysian Society of Nephrology, c/o Department of Nephrology, Kuala Lumpur Hospital, Jalan Pahang 50586 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, phone: + 603 - 2698 4882, Fax: + 603 -2691 6514, Email: moss@po.jaring.my, Website: www.msn.org.my
MEXICO 
Centro Medico La Raza, IMSS, Department of Nephrology
Our Department will be encouraging all health personal involved in the care of outpatients, inpatients, hemodialysis and dialysis peritoneal patients, to give out special leaflets to relatives, to promote early evaluation programs with the family physicians.
This is just the start!
Enquiries: Dr. Maria del Pilar Osorio-Breton, Email: pilar.breton@hotmail.com
Guadalajara Consortia
To celebrate World Kidney Day we will hold the following activities in the city of Guadalajara, Mexico:
- The week before we will be holding several interviews with the media, to alert the population about the burden of kidney disease, and its association with diabetes, obesity and hypertension, as well as the means to prevent it
- March 9 - we are inviting the general population to attend an informative conference at the Hospital Civil de Guadalajara, with local health authorities and some national soccer celebrities. Topics that will be addressed include the burden of cardiovascular and renal disease among the Mexican population, early detection and prevention of progression of CKD, psychosocial aspects of patients with kidney disease, and the importance of a healthy diet and life-style in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases
Program - March 11 - a screening program to detect kidney disease will be offered to 600 adults and 300 children at the Hospital Civil de Guadalajara
- A commemorative poster of WKD, and printed material with information about CKD and its prevention, will be widely distributed throughout the city
These collective efforts are sponsored locally by the "Una Solucion de Vida" Foundation, the Hospitales Civiles Foundation, the Hospital Civil de Guadalajara's Divisions of Nephrology and Pediatric Nephrology, the Jalisco State Health Secretariat, the University of Guadalajara Health Sciences Center, the Jalisco College of Nephrology, and the Jalisco Dialysis and Transplant Registry (REDTJAL), with the financial support of Laboratorios Pisa, S.A.
Photo Album
Press Coverage
Promotional Materials
Enquiries: Guillermo Garcia-Garcia, M.D, Co-Chair, Organizing Committee
E-mail: gggarcia@sanefro.com.mx
MOROCCO 
Moroccan Society of Nephrology
The Moroccan Society of Nephrology and Ministry of Health are jointly arranging the following World Kidney Day initiatives and activities:
- Conferences (Screening and management of chronic renal disease) for medical students in all Faculties of Medicine
Conferences for doctors in each medical region of Morocco to be conducted by local senior nephrologists- Special issue for March 2006 of the local medical review with wide diffusion. The topic will be "Prevention, early screening and management of chronic renal disease"
- Posters to be displayed around hospitals, health care units, universities
- Guide on "prevention, early screening and management of chronic renal disease" which will be distributed during the conferences as to many doctors as possible
- Emissions on radio and TV and coverage in newspaperss
- The distribution of a guide on Chronic Renal Disease during the World Kidney Day conferences on March 9, 2006 (about 3000), and throughout 2006 to the maximum number of physicians (about 7000)
REINS – Association de lutte contre les maladies rénales.
The following World Kidney Day initiatives and activities have been organized:
- March 7, 2006, a press conference to talk about World Kidney Day and the importance of having such an event (Radio and TV advertising, Newspaper), interviews, patient profiles and articles
- A debate on local issues related to renal diseases, focusing on detection, prevention and management
- Kidney disease education classes for patients and families
- The projection of “Renal transplant…happiness recovered”, a film produced by the association on March 9, 2006
- Lyrics of a song on haemodialysis and transplantation, wish will be sung on March 9
- Presentation and sale of a book “Life after renal failure” covering prevention, early screening and management of chronic renal disease
- Raising awareness program for the general public:
- Know your Kidneys and common Kidney Problems
- Importance of early detection of kidney problems in Diabetes and High Blood pressure
- Production and distribution of a poster to celebrate World Kidney Day containing Arabic and French slogans promoting early detection and prevention
- A brochure containing prevention and early screening, to be displayed around schools, youth hostels, universities etc., will be distributed during the conferences
- In collaboration with Moroccan Society of Kidney Diseases, the second French and Moroccan Seminar of Nephrology will take place in Marrakech, beginning on March 9, 2006
- Distribution of Childrens’ Books to younger patients
- Financial aid for children with kidney diseases
Enquiries: President, Pr Amal Bourquia, email : reins@menara.ma, or phone : +21222802001
NIGERIA 
Nigerian Association of Nephrology
In support of this first World Kidney Day, our Association organized a wide range of to both print and electronic media
Main efforts focused on informing and educating fellow medical practitioners about risk factors for kidney disease and the importance of early detection. Emphasis was also placed on communicating the need for early referral of patients to nephrologists
Enquiries: Dr. Ifeoma I. Ulasi, Treasurer, the Nigerian Association of Nephrology, Email: ifeomaulasi@yahoo.co.uk
University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital Renal Care Unit (an ISN Renal Sister Center)
The University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital Renal Care Unit, an ISN Renal Sister Center marked World Kidney Day by organizing a public enlightening program and screening of an unselected population who attended the program
Mailings, jingles, advertisements on radio and TV were aired to educate people about the reasons and importance of the 1st World Kidney Day
Lectures were organized in which Nephrologists (Adult and Paediatric), Cardiologists, Urologists, and Radiologists were invited to speak.
Participants: The Chairman of the occasion was Prof. Adeoye Adeniyi, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Ilorin, and a Paediatric Nephrologist. The State Government was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Alhaja A. A. Saka. The Provost of the College of Medicine, Chief Medical Director of the UITH, Zonal Chairman of NAFDAC in Nigeria, Secondary School pupils from at least 3 Schools, representatives from the Hospital Community – students as well as primary Physicians, as well as a cross section of other Healthcare Professionals
The program was later announced by the radio and State Television.
Attendance: 150 individuals out of which 57 had free screening, Ht, Wt, Age, BP, Urinalysis and those who had risk factors > BM+, HT, DM and aged at around 60 years whose urinalysis were also screened for microalbuminuria. The data is now being analyzed.
The program was a huge success and the Center hopes to continue with such efforts. We are trying to embark on a community outreach program to carry out similar screening and presentations.
Guide to Photos
1- Dr. A. Aderibigbe, Consultant Nephrologist and Head of Renal Care Centre giving a lecture on the Magnitude, Manifestation and Prevention of Chronic Kidney Diseases
2 and 3 – The Participants.
4 - Dr. A. Aderibigbe, Consultant Nephrologist and Head of Renal Care Centre introducing the
World Kidney Day Commemoration
5 - Dr. B. T. Buraimoh, Consultant Radiologist giving a lecture on Radiological Diagnosis of Kidney Disease (Importance in the Prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease)
6 - From L-R: Prof. Soladoye – Provost College of Medicine, Prof. Adeoye Adeniyi – Paediatric Nephrologist/Former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Nigeria & the Chairman of the Occasion, Dr. S. A. Kuranga – The Chief Medical Director of the Teaching Hospital and Mrs. A. A Saka – Permanent Secretary Kwara State Ministry of Health representing the Hon. Commissioner for Health Kwara State, Nigeria during the Public Enlightenment Programme
7 – The Participants
8 - Health Workers Desk and some of the participants queuing up for screening
9 - Prof. A.B.O. Omotoso, Consultant Cardiologist giving a lecture on the Heart and the Kidney: The Siamese Twins
10 - Dr. O. T. Adedoyin, Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist/Senior Lecturer giving a lecture on the Kidney Diseases in Children: an overview
Enquiries: Dr. A. Aderibigbe, Head Renal Unit (ISN RSC), University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Phone:+ 234-803-7134306, Fax:+234-31-220020, Email: academolanan@yahoo.com
University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital Maiduguri, Nigeria
Activities planned in support of the first World Kidney Day, include the following:
- March 8. The nephrologists Dr Emeka Nwankwo and Dr William Wudiri introduce the WKD and discuss some aspects of kidney failure on the Nigerian Television Authority programme News Extra. at 21:00
- March . 9 Continuing the community awareness drive on the need for early detection of kidney disease and early referral to a nephrologist. The television programme will be aired at 08:00 and a call will be made to volunteers for free BP and urine testing.
Enquiries: Dr Emeka Nwankwo, eanwankwo@yahoo.com
NORWAY 
Norwegian Society of Nephrology
Action to mark this inaugural World Kidney Day, March 9, has included sending press release information to national and local broadcasting companies and newspapers. Several reports will cover WKD on March 9 in various newspapers and on Hospital institutional websites.
Members of the Society have, for months now, been carrying out locally based campaigns targeted at general practitioners and specialists (cardiologists and endocrinologists), and in many laboratories eGFR and protein/creatinine-ratio and alb/creat-ratio are being implemented as routine solutions. “Early nephrology” is also a key topic at the Society annual meeting (beginning of May).
Enquiries: Professor Einar Svarstad, Head of the Renal Unit, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway, Email: einar.svarstad@helse-bergen.no or phone: +47-55972979
PAKISTAN 
Aga Khan University (AKU), Karachi
The Section of Nephrology will be organizing:
- A special CME Seminar
- Two public awareness sessions on public radio
- A television program on kidney disease awareness
- Newspaper articles to raise awareness of kidney disease (by AKU Faculty)
Enquiries: Dr. Tazeen H Jafar, Director, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Head, Section of Nephrology, Associate Professor, Medicine & Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Stadium Road, P.O. Box 3500, Karachi-74800, Pakistan. Email: tazeen.jafar@aku.edu, or phone: +9221 4864818, fax: +9221 4934294
Kidney Foundation of Pakistan
Enquiries: Professor S. A. J. Naqvi, Kidney Foundation, Karachi, Pakistan. Email: exceldia@cyber.net.pk
National Institute of Child Health
On behalf of Pakistan Pediatric Association Nephrology Group at our Institute, the National Institute of Child Health (NICH) in Karachi held a seminar to increase awareness about early detection and prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease in children amongst health care professionals
Enquiries: Professor Afroze Ramzan, Director of Pediatric Nephrology, Nationall Institute of Child Health, Karachi -75510, Pakistan, Phone: +92-21 9201264, Email: nich@cyber.net.pk
National Institute of Kidney Diseases Lahore
In order to support the first ever World Kidney Day, March 9, 2006, the National Institute of Kidney Diseases Lahore organized major press coverage, free camps for screening, handouts and special supplements, advertisements as well as special discussion groups
WKD activity diary:
March 8 - Announcement on World Call Cable TV Network - Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, about WKD and free camps for screening and the importance of the early detection of kidney diseases. Advertisements were published in newspapers to increase awareness of kidney disease and banners were displayed around the city and handouts were distributed to the general public. A press release was also widely circulated
March 9 - A 25 minute talk was broadcasted on World Call Cable TV Network - Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, as well as a documentary on Geo TV. Literature about the kidney was widely distributed as well as special supplements published in the Daily Kabren and Pakistan newspapers. A special screening camp was set up - 697 people were consequently screened for kidney disease, diabetes and hypertension.
March 10 - Major press coverage of WKD
March 11 - A Seminar inaugurated by the Federal Health Minister entitled, "Early detection and prevention of kidney diseases for general practitioners and other healthcare providers" was organized
March 13 - Screening camp at Lumbay Jageer Phool Nagar (55 kms from Lahore) - over 400 people were screened for kidney disease, hypertension and diabetes with emphasis on early detection and prevention. The necessary information and guidance was provided to those with abnormal findings
March 18 - Screening camp at Baloki (65 kms from Lahore) - over 500 individuals attended the camp and had a free check up for kidney diseases, hypertension and diabetes. The WHO Regional Director for EMRO along with the WHO Representative for Pakistan also visited the camp.
Additional Activities:
Collaboration with family physicians - a meeting with the President and General Secretary of the Association of Family Physicians (500 members) was organized. Discussion on Early Detection and Prevention of Kidney Disease Program launched by the National Institute of Kidney Diseases, was organized. All family Physicians promised their full support.
Screening at the Outpatient Department of the National Institute of Kidney Diseases - accompanying relatives or friends of visiting kidney patients are all offered free of charge check up and screening tests for diabetes, hypertension and kidney diseases.
Enquiries: Professor Tahir Shafi, Professor of Nephrology, National Institute of Kidney Diseases Lahore, Pakistan, Email: shafitahir@gmail.com, or phone: +92 42 9230763, Fax: +92 42 5830639
THE PHILIPPINES 
Philippine Society of Nephrology
Our Society has organized the following range of activities in celebration of the first WKD:
March 6-7 - Interviews over TV shows and over radio programs and with some journalists to promote public awareness of early recognition of kidney disease
March 9 - Advertisement in the widely circulated “Philippine Star” newspaper
A full page press release on WKD – incorporating local data, as distributed to different outlets
Posters and flyers about WKD have also been distributed to all PSN members, for posting in hospitals and clinics and for distribution to patients. Lay fora has been conducted in some hospitals and dialysis centers, targeting relatives of kidney patients
Enquiries: Dr. Alberto Chua, President, Philippine Society of Nephrology, Email: achua1@skyinet.net
POLAND 
Department of Nephrology and Transplantation Medicine
Medical University, Wroclaw
To support World Kidney Day and promote the inaugural theme of Early Detection and Prevention, the Department of Nephrology and Transplantation, University of Wroclaw organized a series of 6 lectures for general practitioners in different cities within our region (Wroclaw, Klodzko, Opole, Legnica, Swidnica Jelenia Gora), entitled, "New possibilities of nephroprotection.
Enquiries: Dr. Marian Klinger, Dept. of Nephrology and Transplantational Medicine, Medical University, Traugutta 57 Str., 50-417 Wroclaw, Poland, Phone: + 48 71 3432717, Fax: + 48 71 3418308, e-mail: klinef@am.centrum.pl
SENEGAL 
Ministère de la santé et de la prévention médicale
Societé sénégalaise de nephrologie
Association sénégalaise des hémodialyses et insuffisants renaux
Célébration de la journée mondiale du rein
Jeudi 09 mars 2006
Activités:
- Défilé à travers la ville dans le petit train de ville avec banderoles, pancartes et Tshirts
- Journée portes ouvertes sur l’hémodialyse et la dialyse péritonéale
- Dépistage de masse place de l’indépendance sur l’HTA et sédiment urinaire
- Conférence de presse dans un hôtel de la place
As a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health, the Association of Dialyzed Patients, and the Senegalese Society of Nephrology, the following activities were organized to celebrate March 9, the first ever World Kidney Day:
- A World Kidney Day train traveled along the streets of Dakar, departing from the Ministry of Health, giving information to the public to build awareness
- Information booths were set up giving out information on kidney diseases and screening (hypertension, urine tests, diabetes etc.) actually located at the Ministry of Health and also in the Independence Square of Dakar. From 9am - 6pm around 1000 people were screened
- The day closed with a Press Conference given by the Vice Minister of Health who openly discussed the Senegal policy for kidney diseases. This is just the beginning for future World Kidneys to come. The current situation of 3 dialysis centers and less than 50 patients dialyzed in a population of 10 million habitants needs to change.
Enquiries: Prof. A. Abdou Niang, General Secretary, Senegalese Society of Nephrology, B.P. 6548 Dakar Etoile, Senegal, Email: niangabdou@yahoo.com
SINGAPORE 
Singapore Society of Nephrology
The Singapore Society of Nephrology has involved many parties who work in the renal and/or dialysis care fields in several activities not only for March 9, but also in the weeks to come.
The following activities have been organized, with the enthusiastic support of several local voluntary welfare organisations:
- Production and distribution of public education brochures to highlight the urgent need for prevention and early detection of chronic diseases that may lead to renal failure.
- A series of public health talks has been organised throughout the year regarding kidney disease by the Voluntary Welfare Organisations
- Open house in selected dialysis centers
- Free primary prevention screening in selected centres
- Educational forums to health professionals and hospital staff to enhance their knowledge in treatment and preventive strategies
Enquiries : Dr Choong Hui Lin, President Singapore Society of Nephrology lina.choong.h.l@sgh.com.sg
SLOVENIA 
Slovenian Society of Nephrology
Several activities are planned in Slovenia to celebrate World Kidney Day:
- A World Kidney Day cake (in the form of a kidney and with a candle) will be served at the coffee break of the annual Postgraduate course on Kidney disease and hypertension including a lecture on the "Prevention of chronic kidney disease".
- In recognition of World Kidney Day, participants of this course get calculators for estimating GFR and use it for solving clinical cases of patients with chronic kidney disease.
- Across the media (radio, TV and newspapers) many articles and interviews with leading nephrologists in Slovenia are being published.
- All doctors in Slovenia received a copy of World Kidney day: An Idea Whose Time has come in both English and Slovenian, and paper charts, which enable calculating GFR. Several pharmaceutical companies organized charts for estimating GFR and deliver these personally.
Enquiries: Staša Kaplan Pavlovcic, MD,DSc, Professor of Internal Medicine, Department of Nephrology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloska 7, SI-1525 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Phone: + 386 1 52225340, Fax: + 386 1 5222408, E-mail: stasa.kaplan@kclj.si
SOUTH AFRICA 
International Society of Nephrology
On March 9, ISN Councilor Sarala Naicker appears on national TV during the morning news program to promote World Kidney.
Several events are planned for the day including:
- ME lecture
- Public awareness events
National Kidney Foundation (NKF)
Announcement of the 'NKF South Africa Education Trust Fund' in recognition of World Kidney Day, to raise funds to finance and educate educational teams of health professionals to work within local communities, promoting kidney disease awareness, early detection and prevention programs. Donations have already been made.
The NKF also sent out email and promotional mailing notification of World Kidney Day to 2500 individuals, including nephrologists and general practitioners inviting them to celebrate the day.
Other Action:
- A press release was sent to the media through the South African Press Association
- A media release was sent out by the Western Cape Provincial Health Department, endorsed by the Minister of Health
- Members of the NKF Board appeared on one television program and spoke on two radio stations in Johannesburg and Durban. There was a press statement concerning awareness and prevention of kidney disease, highlighting the screening program of National Renal Care
- National Renal Care was involved in screening for kidney disease in 18 outlets of a pharmacy chain in Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town
- In Soweto a group of doctors and health professionals held a highly interactive awareness program targeting the general public
The attendance was good; the openness of the people in asking questions was remarkable (in spite of language difficulties) and patients shared their experiences like never before - A workshop for health professionals was held by the Governmental Department of Chronic Diseases, Rehabilitation and Geriatrics in the Northern Cape to advise health professionals on chronic kidney disease and to establish awareness and screening programs. The Northern Province is in the process of establishing satellite renal units in five outlying areas
Enquiries: Professor FJ Milne, Email: nkfsa@mweb.co.za
SPAIN 
Spanish Society of Nephrology
In full support of this inaugural World Kidney Day, the Spanish Society of Nephrology has developed a special program within every region within Spain to promote the importance of World Kidney Day. Several Spanish nephrologists will appear on March 9 on television, newspapers, and give radio interviews to communicate the seriousness of CKD and the need for early detection and prevention.
Enquiries: Dr. Angel Luis Martín de Francisco, President of the Spanish Society of Nephrology, Email: senefro@senefro.org
SUDAN 
Sudanese Society of Kidney Diseases & Transplantation (SSKDT)
Known formerly as the Nephrology-Urology Association, which has been active for many years since the1960s, SSKDT is now reborn.
Nephrology in Sudan started in the year 1961 by Professor Abdel Rahman Musa, the Second kidney transplant in Africa was done in Sudan 1974.
Activities for World Kidney Day, 9 March 2006 in Sudan include:
- Free Clinics
- Free Investigations to evaluate CKD.
- Measuring blood pressure
- Lectures to promote the early detection and prevention
- An advertisement in the Media
The social and cultural aspects of the day will be equally exciting.
Click on the link below for full information about activities to celebrate World Kidney Day, March 9 in Sudan http://renalunit.com/worldkidneyday.html
Enquiries: Dr. Babiker G. Kaballo - SSKDT Secretary General - hireiz@hotmail.com
SWEDEN 
Swedish Society of Nephrology
March 9 - Our Society will be jointly hosting a special conference along with the Swedish Association of Renal Patients. The press session will focus on the topic of the early detection and treatment of renal disease.
Enquiries: Prof. Olof Heimbürger, Secretary, the Swedish Society of Nephrology, Email: olof.heimburger@klinvet.ki.se
Kidney Association of Stockholm
- A national media conference will be held on March 9 in the morning in Stockholm – by invitation from the Kidney Association of Stockholm and incorporating an expert panel to comment on the WKD message
- A media-release, based on the WKD message to be aimed at the general public will be circulated on March 9
- Articles about the WKD and its key message to be published in a nation-wide professional journal, circulated to all nephrology professionals throughout Sweden
- All regional Kidney Associations and all Nephrology Clinics in Sweden have been kept informed about the WKD and have been encouraged to act on the local level
- Key individuals within the national and local government and authorities to be informed about the WKD, its theme and message prior to March 9 – to prepare for possible media interest
- A public lecture with a nephrologist and a patient is planned, to follow up the WKD message
- The Annual General Meeting of the Kidney Association of Stockholm is deliberately scheduled to take place during the afternoon of March 9, to highlight the WKD message and discuss other important issues
Enquiries: Per Åke Zillén, Email: pazillen@telia.com or phone +46-8-715 31 33.
TAIWAN 
Taiwan Society of Nephrology
The Society has been very active for at the last 3 years with its prevention programs. It has co-operated with the Department of Health to work together in planning for prevention of CKD in Taiwan and has an active Kidney Disease Prevention Project.
Last year TSN launched a National Kidney Day activity on June 19, and it will be held in June this year too. In the future TSN will align its national day with the World Kidney Day in March.
Enquiries: Shang-Jyh Hwang, M.D, Chairman of the Committee for CKD Prevention
Taiwan Society of Nephrology. Tel: 886-7-3117820 Fax: 886-7-3212062
E-Mail: sjhwang@kmu.edu.tw
THAILAND 
The Nephrology Society of Thailand
THAILAND CELEBRATES THE FIRST WORLD KIDNEY DAY
The Nephrology Society of Thailand with the support of National Kidney Foundation of Thailand, Ministry of Public Health and National Health Security Office has organized various activities promoting the prevention of CKD.
March 1-30, 2006
Public information release will be distributed via all mass communication outlets: newspaper, radio, television
March 8-9, 2006
Exhibition themed “Good kidney - Good quality of life”
Venue:
Central Plaza Pinkloa, Bangkok, Thailand
Session times:
11 am – 7.30 pm on the ground floor section C & D
Activities:
Poster presentation on “Healthy kidney & how to prevent CKD”, video presentation, health check-up and talk show. All attendees will receive the book “How to prevent CKD: the secrets” as a gift. Talk shows will focus on the following topics:
- “Chronic kidney disease: How to prevent” by Prof. Leena Ong-Aj-Yooth, President of The Nephrology Society of Thailand
- “FAQ about Diabetic nephropathy” by Drs. Dhavee Sirivongs and Surasak Kantachuvesiri, Nephrologist
- “Hypertension and kidneys” by Dr. Piyatida Jeungsmarn, Nephrologist
- “Good nutrition, Good kidney” by Associate prof. Chavalit Rattanakul, Nutritionist
- “Glomerulonephritis” by Prof. Pathra Kurathong, Nephrologist
- “Drugs and Kidney” by Dr. Talernsak Kanjanabuch, Nephrologist
March 9-10, 2006
Exhibition on “Good kidney - Good quality of life”
Venues: All hospitals in Thailand
Activities: Poster presentation on “Healthy kidney & how to prevent CKD”.
Enquiries: Dr. Dhavee Sirivongs, Chief World Kidney Day Task Force, The Nephrology Society of Thailand, Email: kidney@loxinfo.co.th, or phone:+66-4336-3526, fax +43-4334-7108, Website: www.nephrothai.org
TUNISIA 
Tunisian Society of Nephrology
To celebrate the World Kidney Day the Tunisian Society of Nephrology will hold the following activities on March 9 2006:
- Coverage on 4 radiostations (2 in Tunis for the north of the country, 1 in Monastir to cover central Tunisia, and 1 in Sfax for the south).These broadcasts will focus on the magnitude of the problem and on the detection and the prevention of chronic kidney disease.
- Screening to detect chronic kidney disease will be carried out in 6 areas of Tunisia: 4 in Tunis, 1 in Monastir and 1 in Sfax. Screening will include clinical examination, blood pressure measurement and urine examination using dipstix.
Enquiries: Dr. Adel Kheder, Email: adel.kheder@rns.tn
Tunisian Society of Nephrology and the Tunisian Ministry of Health
We have jointly decided to celebrate World Kidney Day by organizing the following activities:
- On special national and regional radio broadcasts 5 appointed doctors will highlight the main goals of this day, the importance of the early detection of CKD and its impact on health and socioeconomics, as well as the importance of the prevention of chronic renal failure in order to increase awareness of citizens and doctors about CKD
- Many newspapers have been contact to report on WKD. Information prepared and written by our medical team will be published
- 5 nurses in 5 medical centers will perform urinary tests using Multistix, and measure blood pressure and BMI in all patients who visit on March 9
- Some nephrologists will be contacted by radio to give information about WKD its global importance and implications
Enquiries: Dr. BEN ABDALLAH, Treasurer of the Tunisian Society Of Nephrology, Email: fam.babdallah@gnet.tn
TURKEY 
The Turkish Society of Nephrology has been extremely active in supporting World Kidney Day. The following activities have taken place in order to raise awareness within the public and medical communities:
- World Kidney Day has been announced on the front page of the TSN Official Web Site since February 23,. 2006.
- On February 2, 2006, all TSN members received personal e-mails from the Society with brief information on The World Kidney Day and its relevance, with a link to the World Kidney Day website for their further information.
- On March 6, 2006, a press Bulletin was sent to various newspapers & media organizations to be used as baseline material for their coverage of The World Kidney Day on their 9 March 2006 issues or news broadcasts.
The Bulletin emphasized the need for global awareness of the importance of the early detection and prevention of chronic kidney disease as a major Public Health issue.
It also drew attention to the Turkish Society of Nephrology -Turkish Chronic Renal Disease Prevalence Study-that is officially launched on March 9 2006 and will screen 10,500 adults and 5000 children in 27 different geographic regions of the country.
This study will be followed by long-term follow-up of cohorts and will form a basis for the National Program for Kidney Failure Prevention that the Turkish Society of Nephrology is envisaging to develop together with the Ministry of Health and other relevant national medical societies. The Ministry of Health has already agreed to support this program.
- At 11:15 am on 9 March 2006, Dr. Kenan Ates, a TSN Council Member appears on the state TV (TRT Channel 2) as host to a popular Health Talk Show Program called RECETE (receipt) entirely devoted to World Kidney Day & Kidney Disease.
- On March 9, 2006, Dr. Oktay Oymak & Bulent Tokgoz, President & Council Member of the TSN Kayseri Branch appears on the Erciyes University TV that broadcasts to Kayseri and the entire Cappadocia area. The hour-long talk (with the help of audiovisual material) focuses on the subject of Kidney Disease and the World Kidney Day. This Broadcast will be repeated twice a day for the coming week.
- On March 9, 2006, Dr. Tevfik Ecder, a TSN Council Member and a past ISN-Fellowship Scholar will be interviewed about the World Kidney Day for the evening news by a famous private National TV channel (TGRT).
- Long term, Dr. Mehmet Sever from the TSN & ISN renal task force will be coordinating some year long joint activities between the TSN and the Turkish Kidney Foundation (TKF) that will include amongst others, publication of informative booklets, and audiovisual material related to the subject and also public conferences and meetings to build up further awareness on the subject.
Enquiries: Cagatay Hamamcioglu, Probiz Management & Organization Consultancy, Haciemin, Efendi Sokak No: 12 / 1, 34365 Tesvikiye Istanbul TURKEY. Tel : +90 212 234 6505, Fax: +90 212 234 6520, cagatay@probiz.com.tr
Kidney education classes for patients and families on kidney disease. Screening of students in major regions of Istanbul, Turkey
Enquiries: Mr. Timur Erk, Email: tbv@tbv.com.tr or phone +90 212 557 7070
Antolia Kidney Foundation, Ankara
From May 8-14, the Anatolia Kidney Foundation will celebrate Foundation and Civilization Week in Turkey and as part of these celebrations attention will be drawn to the spirit of World Kidney Day on May 9, 2006. A panel discussion has been organized for kidney health professionals to focus on "Early detection and prevention in renal diseases".
Enquiries: Professor Ayla San, Email: aylasan@anadolubv.org.tr or phone +90 0312 2139880.
Mesa Hospital, Ankara
- Three local radio stations in Ankara (ODTU FM, Bilkent FM, Capital FM) will be broadcasting brief communications about World Kidney Day and there will be a 30 minute interactive discussion on ODTU radio
- Posters will be displayed in two large shopping malls in Ankara during the weekend prior to WKD. They announce the day, define risk groups for chronic kidney disease and provide contact information for the free screening program of 100 patients taking place on March 9
- March 9 - Dr. Cem Sungur and a colleague will screen around 100 high risk individuals free of charge with a clinical evaluation, followed by lab tests: urinalysis, microalbumin (spot urine) fasting blood sugar, LDL and Total Cholesterol, serum creatinine and GFR (MDRD). This service will also be free of charge.
- March 10 - There will be a full page article published in the local newspapers Cumhuriyet, with condensed articles also published in at least two other newspapers (Radikal, Milliyet) on March 9
- March 10 - 30 GP's and 5 diabetes nurses will be invited for training (45 minutes lecture and an interactive session lasting 45 minutes)
Enquiries: Dr. C. Sungur, Email: csungur@mesa.com.tr, or phone +90-312-2929900, www.mesahastanesi.com.tr
TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS 
The TCI National Kidney Foundation
Provindenciales (Caribbean) The primary focus for World Kidney Day is education in the Turks and Caicos Islands
March 1 through 14 - Newspaper, Radio and TV advertising, interviews, patient profiles and articles
March 1 and 7 - Local TV chat show with foundation members, patients and local doctors
March 1 through 9 - T-shirt sales and leaflet distribution - special "Support WKD 2006" branded shirts
March 9 - Free testing on Providenciales and Grand Turk to all high risk individuals in particular but open to all interested
March 13 - Public Holiday in the Islands - Awareness Walk-a-Thon will be held on that day
Enquiries: President - Mrs Trish Selver, Email: trish@express.tc or phone/fax +64 9946 4383
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 
In the United Arab Emirates, World Kidney Day was marked by the following actions:
- a brochure about World Kidney Day was distributed to all primary health physicians in Dubai
- a Powerpoint presentation about World Kidney Day was sent by intranet to all government health workers in Dubai
- a full-day meeting covering various nephrology issues was organized in Abu Dhabi by the nephrology society EMA-N.
UNITED KINGDOM 
Liaison with various Government and key health authorities Promotion with kidney health professionals and patient associations via the Kidney Alliance The British Renal Society will promote World Kidney Day
Enquiries: Charles Kernahan, Email: charleskernahan@kidneyresearchuk.org or phone +44 1733 704 650
URUGUAY 
Uruguayan Society of Nephrology
The Uruguayan Society of Nephrology is currently planning various WKD activities including:
- A National Press conference
- Meeting with the Health Ministry Authorities to discuss the application of a Renal Health Program
- Local Meetings taking place at different healthcare Centers to promote awareness surrounding early detection and prevention of chronic kidney disease
Enquiries: Dr. Laura Sola, President, Uruguayan Society of Nephrology, Email: lsola@adinet.com.uy
USA 
City of Seattle Proclamation
Particularly proactive in driving such regional endeavours has been the Northwest Kidney Centers Foundation. Click here to find out more: Northwest Kidney Centers Foundation Update - March 2006
March 2 – The City of Seattle officially declares March 9 as "World Kidney Day"
- The World Kidney Day proclamation, endorsed by Gregory J. Nickels, Mayor of the City of Seattle, recognizes the serious implications of chronic kidney disease and actively promotes early detection and prevention strategies and action:
“… I encourage all citizens to join me in educating ourselves and others on the causes and methods of prevention of this disease.”, G. J. Nickels, Mayor.
The Proclamation.
Florida Society of Nephrology
To promote and educate patients and the public regarding kidney disease via World Kidney Day, as a first step the Florida Society of Nephrology will be addressing the Florida Legislature regarding needs for all kidney patients within the region (via Dialysis Day, March 22, 2006).
Enquiries: Carl Brueggemeyer, M.D., Immediate Past President, Florida Society of Nephrology, Phone: + 904-273-5317, Email: carlfl1@comcast.net
Home Dialysis Unit and Ambulatory Treatment Clinic, the University Hospitals of Cleveland
March 21-22 2006 - To mark the month of WKD activities month the nurses of the Home Dialysis Unit and Ambulatory Treatment Clinic at University Hospitals of Cleveland, will be hosting a special area in the Hospital’s main Atrium. This table will offer blood pressure screening and information on Chronic Kidney Disease, how to recognize it and what to do to prevent it or delay progression.
Enquiries: Lynda N. Newman, MSN, RN, CNS, CNN, Clinical Coordinator, Home Dialysis Unit / Ambulatory Treatment Clinic, Lakeside 55 South - Lks-7025, University Hospitals of Cleveland, 11100 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, Ohio. Phone: + 216-844-8305, Email: lynda.newman@uhhs.com
Medical University of South Carolina, Dept. of Medicine/Nephrology
March 11 - As a part of World Kidney Day celebrations and to fulfill our mission of educating the medical community and the general public on kidney disease, we are organizing our inaugural Chronic Kidney Disease Conference aimed at benefiting internists, family physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses and pharmacists.
The conference (Saturday March 11, to assure maximum attendees) will take place in Charleston, SC. We have received more responses than we expected, highlighting the will of the general medical community to better renal education.
The conference is CME accredited by the AMA for 6.5 hours of CME. Please click here for further details.
Suggestions, enquiries and feedback can be sent to Dr. Kedar Shetye, Medical Director, DCI Azalea Dialysis Unit, Medical University of South Carolina, Email: shetye@musc.edu
Several press releases and various promotions featuring KEEP and other early detection and prevention strategies were widely circulated
A special meeting in Washington with US Government officials took place to announce WKD. In recognition NASDAZ invited the National Kidney Foundation to ring its closing bell on March 9
The Chairman of the Greater New York Affiliate and forty NKF volunteers and staff members were present for the ceremony as special guests of NASDAQ. The NKF logo was be projected on the NASDAQ tower screen in Time Square, and an NKF public service announcement on chronic kidney disease ran periodically for the following three hours
The NASDAQ MarketSite Tower stands seven stories tall and is the world's largest stationary video screen
NASDAQ Stock Exchange World Kidney Day Celebration
Celebrate Family on World Kidney Day
Enquiries: Mr. John Davis, Email: johnd@kidney.org or phone +1 212 889 2210
Northwest Kidney Centers
Thanks to the work of staff and patients at the Northwest Kidney Centers, Washington State cities, counties and legistlature proclaimed March 9, 2006 to be World Kidney Day:
- City of Port Angeles Proclamation
- City of Pullman Proclamation
- City of Seattle Proclamation
- City of Spokane Proclamation
- City of Vancouver Proclamation
- City of Yakima Proclamation
- King County Proclamation
- Washington State Legislature Resolution
For information on Northwest Kidney Centers please visit: www.nwkidney.org
University of Wisconsin, Nephrology Section, Department of Medicine
- To support World Kidney Day a special symposium co-sponsored by the NKF of Wisconsin, Center for Global Health at the University of Wisconsin and the Nephrology section of the Department of Medicine, is being held on March 9, 4pm, room 1325 HSLC at the University. Informative Flyer
- Dr. A. Vishnu Moorthy will be addressing medical students at the University of Wisconsin at noon – a special symposium organized by students interested in health issues in minorities. Patients with CKD will also talk about their specific medical issues. Press will be present.
- March 23, 11:06-11:45am (Central Standard Time) – Dr. A. Vishnu Moorthy has been invited to speak at a call-in talk show on Wisconsin Public Radio, “The Ideas Network on the problems of Chronic Kidney Disease”. This talk will also be webcast with live audio streaming on www.wpr.org, and can be followed worldwide
Enquiries: Dr. A. Vishnu Moorthy, UW Neprhology, Email: avm@medicine.wisc.edu or phone: +1 608-2705656
VENEZUELA 
The Venezuelan Society of Nephrology (VSN)
The Venezuelan Society of Nephrology encouraged the entire country’s nephrology community to observe and recognize “World Kidney Day” to the Nephrology. As outlined by the ISN and the IFKF, we focused our attention on education to increase the overall awareness of early detection, prevention and risk factors for chronic renal disease. We targeted physicians, primary healthcare professionals, as well as the general public.
On March 8 and 9, events and activities included the following:
- Lectures for physicians and healthcare professionals were held in several regional primary care facilities
- Several television and radio interviews throughout the country
- Articles released in main newspapers – El Nacional, El Universal, Ultimas Noticias, Correo del Caroni
- An arrticle on the webpage of the Ministry of Health (www.msds.gov.ve) and in the monthly informational Bulletin of the Ministry of Health – El Vocero
- A special article on “Chronic Renal Failure” in the Red de Sociedades Cientificas Medicas Venezolanas Journal
- Free screening and educational awareness offered to the public in several cities for the detection of hypertension, diabetes and proteinuria. In total about 600 individuals were screened and those that warranted medical attention were referred to a local clinic for further evaluation
On March 27 and 28, continuing events will include:
- A meeting on the ‘Prevention of Renal Disease’ will take place in Merida. In addition to the contribution of nationally recognized nephrologists, this conference will also include internationally recognized guest speakers. The event is also recognized by the Ministry of Health
Enquiries: Dr. Raul Carlini, President, Sociedad Venezolana de Nefrologia, Caracas, Venezuela, Phone: +58-2127540654, E-mail: rcarlini@cantv.net
ZIMBABWE 
General Activity – an overview from a past ISN Fellow (under the mentorship of Prof. S. Naicker, Johannesburg, South Africa)
In Zimbabwe there are only two nephrologists for adults and one Paediatric Nephrologist to serve Zimbabwe’s population of 14 million - the majority being children which is typical of developing countries. Haemodialysis has been initiated for children in Harare three of whom can be seen in the pictures attached – actually taken on World Kidney Day, March 9 2006. The other picture is of the lecture given by myself to consultants at Chitungwiza Central Hospital which is in the process of installing dialysis machines. We are receiving help from Cuban doctors at this institution. The lectures were on screening and management of paediatric and adult renal patients. I run both adult and paediatric renal services at the hospital.
This brief overview demonstrates just what can be done in Sub-Saharan Africa by ISN, Prof Naicker and others working with her. We also wanted to show that we have a reason to celebrate World Kidney Day.
Enquiries: Dr. L.K. Muchemwa, Email: lmuchemwa@healthnet.org.zw