Home Peritoneal Dialysis: A Breakthrough Helping Kidney Disease Patients Lead Independent Lives

Mr. T. (45 years old, residing in Ho Chi Minh City) suffered from chronic kidney disease and had to undergo hemodialysis three times a week. What exhausted him was not only the illness itself, but also the repetitive commute, intense time pressure, and disruption to his daily life. Following clinical counseling to transition to home peritoneal dialysis, Mr. T. has been able to manage his treatment proactively, reducing his reliance on fixed hemodialysis schedules and gradually reclaiming a stable daily routine. His story is one of many that highlight the importance of choosing the right treatment modality in chronic kidney disease management.

Reflecting this reality and in response to World Kidney Day 2026, the Department of Nephrology and Hemodialysis at University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City (UMC) organized a patient club education session themed "Protecting Kidneys – Preserving the Environment: For Sustainable Health." The program aimed not only to raise public awareness about chronic kidney disease, but also to provide appropriate therapeutic and care solutions, empowering patients to take an active role in their long-term treatment journey.

The event welcomed the medical team from the Department of Nephrology and Hemodialysis, alongside numerous patients and their families. The presentations focused on the early detection of chronic kidney disease, comprehensive treatment pathways, and interventions to enhance patients' quality of life.

Many Patients Diagnosed Only After Significant Loss of Kidney Function

According to Tran Ha Thi Kim Doi, MD, Specialist Level I, from the Department of Nephrology and Hemodialysis, a major challenge today is that many patients are diagnosed only after kidney function has substantially declined, as the early stages are virtually asymptomatic. High-risk groups—including individuals with hypertension, diabetes, or a history of improper medication use—require regular screening. Dr. Doi emphasized that early detection not only helps slow disease progression, but also serves as a critical factor in preventing the need for renal replacement therapy later in life.

Addressing treatment strategies, Tran Minh Hoang, MD, MSc, from the Department of Nephrology and Hemodialysis, stated that chronic kidney disease cannot be effectively managed through pharmacological therapies alone without nutritional management and long-term adherence. Controlling dietary intake, particularly sodium and protein levels, plays a vital role in alleviating the metabolic burden on the kidneys, thereby prolonging preserved renal function and curbing complications.

🔴Peritoneal Dialysis Empowers Patients Across Multiple Facets of Life

Huynh Ngoc Phuong Thao, MD, PhD, Head of the Department of Nephrology and Hemodialysis, noted that against the backdrop of a rising chronic kidney disease prevalence, selecting the right therapeutic approach directly influences not only clinical control but also overall patient quality of life. Among available options, home peritoneal dialysis is a viable renal replacement modality for many patients, affording greater scheduling flexibility, lowering hospital visit frequency, and enabling individuals to maintain a lifestyle and work routine as close to normal as possible.