National Kidney Week: Public Health Campaign Reaches Isolated Communities in French Guiana
Health officials in French Guiana are launching a public health campaign during National Kidney Week, from March 8 to March 15, 2025, to raise awareness about kidney disease and provide free screenings. This initiative aims to address a growing health concern, as kidney disease often goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage, making early detection crucial for effective management and treatment.
The campaign will include information booths set up in major towns and cities, offering education on prevention and the importance of early diagnosis. According to organizers, these booths will be located at the Cayenne and Saint-Laurent markets from 7 a.m. To 2 p.m., the Montjoly 2 and Matoury shopping centers, and the Super U and Leader Price stores in Kourou from 9 a.m. To 4 p.m.
Free screenings will be available on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the same locations, allowing residents to check their kidney health and receive professional advice. This outreach is particularly important given the high prevalence of diabetes and hypertension in French Guiana, two major risk factors for chronic kidney disease.
Data indicates that 41% of individuals with diabetes in French Guiana too suffer from chronic kidney disease, a significantly higher rate than the 29% national average in mainland France. The average age of a patient in French Guiana diagnosed with kidney failure is 56, and nearly half (48%) are obese.
This year’s National Kidney Week, the 20th edition, focuses on the theme “How are your kidneys? Early detection to better protect them.” The campaign aims to reach even the most isolated villages through innovative methods, including utilizing river transport.
Nationally, France Rein is observing its 21st National Kidney Week from March 7 to March 14, 2026, with a focus on the theme “Kidney health: taking care of everyone while protecting the planet.” France Rein reports that approximately 6 million people in France are unaware they have kidney disease, highlighting the need for increased awareness and preventative measures. Early detection can potentially delay or even prevent the progression to severe kidney disease, which often requires dialysis or transplantation.
