Dzulkefly Ahmad: Rising Diabetes-Linked CKD Cases Push Treatment Costs to RM3.3 Billion
SHAH ALAM: The growing number of chronic kidney disease (CKD) cases linked to diabetes is placing increasing pressure on Malaysia’s healthcare system, with annual treatment costs reaching RM3.3 billion.
Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said the figure marks a significant rise from approximately RM572 million in 2010, reflecting the escalating financial burden.
He noted that the impact extends beyond national spending, as patients often require long-term treatments such as dialysis, affecting their overall quality of life.
Worrying Upward Trend
The prevalence of CKD has increased from nine per cent in 2011 to 15.5 per cent last year, indicating a concerning trend.
On average, 28 Malaysians are diagnosed with kidney failure each day and must begin dialysis treatment.
More than five million Malaysians are living with CKD, yet only about five per cent are aware of their condition.
Dzulkefly warned that the number of patients requiring dialysis could exceed 106,000 by 2040 if preventive measures are not strengthened.
Strengthening Preventive Measures
To address the issue, the government is focusing on prevention as a key strategy.
He stressed that diabetes-related complications remain the primary cause of kidney failure, making it essential to control underlying risk factors.
As part of these efforts, the government raised the sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) tax to 90 sen per litre starting in 2025 to curb excessive sugar intake.
Funding More Effective Treatments
Revenue from the SSB tax, amounting to RM54.9 million, is partly allocated to fund treatment using Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.
These treatments have been shown to reduce complications and improve disease management among CKD patients.
Expanding Public Awareness
Dzulkefly emphasised the need to enhance public awareness to ensure early detection.
He noted that many patients only seek treatment at advanced stages, leading to higher risks and increased healthcare costs.
The public, especially high-risk groups such as individuals with diabetes, are encouraged to undergo regular health screenings and take proactive steps to manage their health.
-wilayah.com.my
