For almost three years, Mr. Hoang has been traveling from Quy Nhon to Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City for regular checkups. Initially, these were monthly, but as his kidney function improved, they became less frequent, occurring every two to three months.

Doctor Ta Phuong Dung, Deputy Director of the Center for Urology, Nephrology, and Andrology and Head of the Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, explained that Mr. Hoang was diagnosed with stage 4 chronic kidney disease along with several other conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, mixed hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis, hyperuricemia, grade 1 fatty liver, a left kidney cyst, and anemia. Had his kidney function deteriorated further to stage 5 (end-stage renal disease), he would have required regular dialysis.

To avoid dialysis, Doctor Dung developed a personalized medication plan for Mr. Hoang. The goal was to preserve his remaining kidney function, prevent further decline, and manage his other health conditions, controlling complications like anemia and hyperuricemia.

Mr. Hoang (right) during a recent kidney function checkup. Photo: *Hospital*

Mr. Hoang diligently followed the prescribed medication and adopted a healthier diet, focusing on lean pork and skinless chicken while avoiding red meat and organ meats. He also refrained from fried foods, limited salty and sweet dishes, and never missed a follow-up appointment. Thanks to his commitment, his kidney disease has improved from stage 4 to stage 3, with his kidney function now stable and well-managed.

Mr. Hoang shared that health insurance covered part of his medical expenses and provided outpatient medication, easing the financial burden.

Ha Thanh