The Aga Khan University Hospital

Karachi, the heart of Pakistan’s healthcare system, is home to some of the most advanced medical facilities and highly experienced specialists. Among the various fields of medicine, nephrology —the branch that deals with kidney health—holds special importance due to the rising prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, and hypertension. For patients in need of expert kidney care, Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) stands out as a leading name in nephrology services. Why Kidney Health Matters The kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste, balancing fluids and electrolytes, regulating blood pressure, and producing important hormones. Kidney diseases can be silent killers, often showing no symptoms until the damage is severe. Common conditions include: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Kidney Stones Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) Polycystic Kidney Disease End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) requiring dialysis or transplant ...

 Heart failure is a chronic condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs. It doesn’t mean the heart has stopped working but rather that it’s functioning less efficiently. Recognizing the symptoms early can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes and quality of life. Common Symptoms of Heart Failure Heart failure can affect the left side, right side, or both sides of the heart. Symptoms may develop suddenly (acute) or gradually over time (chronic). Here are the most common signs to watch for: 1. Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea) Occurs during physical activity, while resting, or when lying flat. May wake you up at night gasping for air. Often due to fluid backing up in the lungs (pulmonary congestion). 2. Fatigue and Weakness Reduced blood flow can leave muscles and organs under-supplied with oxygen and nutrients. May feel tired even after adequate rest. 3. Swelling (Edema) Fluid buildup causes swelling ...

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer, thanks to the development of the cervical cancer vaccine . This vaccine protects against the human papillomavirus (HPV) , which is the leading cause of cervical cancer in women. In this article, we'll break down what the cervical cancer vaccine is, how it works, who should get it, and why it's so important. What is the Cervical Cancer Vaccine? The cervical cancer vaccine , also known as the HPV vaccine , is a powerful tool designed to protect against specific strains of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer. There are different brands of this vaccine, with Gardasil 9 being the most commonly used today. It protects against 9 types of HPV, including the high-risk strains HPV-16 and HPV-18, which cause about 70% of cervical cancer cases. How Does the HPV Vaccine Work? The HPV vaccine works by stimulating the body’s immune system to produce antibodies against the HPV virus. If a person is later exposed to the viru...

 Karachi, a bustling metropolis, is home to numerous skilled dermatologists offering a wide range of skin, hair, and nail treatments. If you're searching for top specialists in the city, here are some of the best dermatologists to consider: 1. Dr. Khilji Faisal Arif A UK-trained dermatologist with over 20 years of experience, specializing in advanced dermatological and cosmetic treatments. 2. Dr. Salman Mansoor Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon with over 24 years of experience, known for his expertise in skin diseases and cosmetic surgery. 3. Dr. Nazia Shakeel Board-certified dermatologist with over 10 years of experience, specializing in clinical diagnosis, aesthetics, and cosmetology. 4. Dr. Priya Sawlani Dermatologist, Laser Specialist, and Cosmetologist with 5 years of experience, known for her patient-centered approach. 5. Dr. Hadia Akram Dermatologist with 10 years of experience, offering treatments for various skin conditions. 6. Dr. S. Shahmoo...

Take a Step Toward Better Kidney Health This March 13, 2025 World Kidney Day is a global awareness initiative that highlights the importance of kidney health and aims to reduce the impact of kidney disease worldwide. This year, on March 13, 2025 , Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) invites you to join us for a day dedicated to kidney health awareness and prevention. Why Your Kidneys Matter Your kidneys work tirelessly behind the scenes, filtering waste, balancing fluids, and supporting your overall health. Yet many of us don't think about these vital organs until something goes wrong. Chronic kidney disease often develops silently, with symptoms appearing only after significant damage has occurred. In Pakistan, we face a particularly challenging situation with approximately 33 million people living with diabetes—one of the leading causes of kidney disease alongside high blood pressure. Many are unaware of their condition until it's advanced. What We're Offering on Worl...

 Why Your Kidneys Deserve Your Attention Think of your kidneys as the unsung heroes of your body. These fist-sized organs work tirelessly 24/7, filtering your blood, balancing your fluids, and even helping create red blood cells. Yet we rarely give them a second thought—until something goes wrong. Maria, a 48-year-old teacher, discovered this the hard way. "I had no idea my kidneys were struggling until my routine check-up showed elevated creatinine levels," she shares. "My doctor explained that years of uncontrolled blood pressure had taken a toll on my kidneys. If only I'd known sooner how simple habits could have protected them." Simple Daily Habits That Show Your Kidneys Some Love 1. Drink Water Like Your Kidneys Depend On It (Because They Do!) Remember how refreshed you feel after a glass of water on a hot day? Your kidneys feel that relief with every sip. They use that water to flush toxins from your body. James, a construction worker, keeps a reusabl...