Abstract: TH-PO865
Tears of the Nile: Unraveling the Tragedy of Kidney Transplant Recipients in Sudan during Wartime
Session Information
- Race, Ethnicity, and Gender in Kidney Health and Care
October 24, 2024 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Diversity and Equity in Kidney Health
- 900 Diversity and Equity in Kidney Health
Authors
- Alatta, Lina, New York Presbyterian Queens, Flushing, New York, United States
- Mohamed, Amira, Sudanese American Physicians Association (SAPA), Plano, Texas, United States
- Homeida, Anmar, Sudanese American Physicians Association (SAPA), Plano, Texas, United States
Background
In 1974, Sudan achieved its first renal transplantation, but progress stalled for twenty-five years. However, in 2000, a transformative initiative led by Sudanese expatriate surgeons and local nephrologists, with support from visiting teams from England, revitalized kidney transplantation in Sudan. Currently, Sudan has four functioning transplant centers, including a specialized pediatric unit in Khartoum. Despite challenges like political instability and healthcare underinvestment, studies are shedding light on obstacles faced by transplant patients, such as financial constraints and limited post-transplant care
Following the onset of the conflict in Sudan on April 15, 2023, the healthcare system experienced considerable strain and depletion of already limited resources. Prior to the outbreak of war in Sudan, the estimated population of living transplant recipients stood at approximately 4500. Kidney transplant recipients rely on immunosuppressive medication to sustain graft viability. However, interruptions in medication availability and follow-up care markedly increase vulnerability to infections and the risk of transplant rejection
Methods
Data were collected from published research, social media, and medical personnels
Results
Kidney transplant recipients faced a disruption in access to immunosuppressive medications, as the primary pharmacy serving these patients was in Ahmed Gassim Hospital. There is a lack of clear data regarding the incidence of infections or transplant rejection cases, as well as the number of patients requiring hospitalization or dialysis.
Conclusion
The findings highlight the severe impact of wartime conditions on kidney transplant recipients in Sudan, emphasizing disruptions in accessing vital medications and follow-up care.
To assist kidney transplant patients in conflict zones like Sudan, the international community should prioritize strengthening health infrastructure, providing training programs for healthcare professionals, and establishing financial aid mechanisms. Additionally, promoting robust organ donation initiatives, fostering research and data collection, building collaborative networks, and utilizing telemedicine for remote support are essential steps. These efforts aim to improve the resilience and sustainability of kidney transplant programs, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.