Gaps and challenges in the provision of treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease: perspectives from the Philippines

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global public health concern, with prevalence of 9.1%–13.4% of the population worldwide.1 In the Philippines, its prevalence is 35.94%, which is much higher than estimated global rates.2 Aside from its contribution to mortality, the growing burden of CKD is also illustrated by its associated financial costs. Locally, 94% of end stage renal disease (ESRD) patients are undergoing center-based hemodialysis (HD), 4% are on peritoneal dialysis (PD) and only 2% had kidney transplantation (KT).