Aga Khan University Hospital launches cholesterol disorders clinic to combat heart disease risk in Kenya

KENYA—The Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi has introduced a new clinic focused on cholesterol (lipid) disorders, marking a significant step in its efforts to reduce the risk of heart diseases in Kenya.

This initiative follows the opening of the Nakawa Specialty Centre in Uganda, which offers a range of specialized outpatient healthcare services.

The event was graced by Dr. Bernard Samia, President of the Kenya Cardiac Society (KCS), alongside the CEO of Aga Khan University Hospital, Rashid Khalani, and Dr. Mzee Ngunga, the Lead Interventional Cardiologist for the clinic.

The Lipid Disorders Clinic is staffed by a dedicated team of cardiologists, family physicians, nutritionists, specialist nurses, and pathologists, working together to provide optimal care for patients.

 Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally, including in Kenya, where non-communicable diseases account for over 50% of hospital admissions and 39% of deaths.

The clinic offers comprehensive services, including cholesterol assessments, genetic testing to identify underlying lipid abnormalities, and personalized management plans developed by an experienced team of healthcare professionals.

In addition, patients receive dietary advice and education on maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

Lipid disorder clinics are specialized in diagnosing, managing, and preventing cholesterol-related disorders that increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Unlike general cardiology clinics, lipid clinics focus on identifying the root causes of lipid imbalances and creating tailored treatment plans with long-term monitoring.

This new clinic adds to the hospital’s growing portfolio of heart services, solidifying its recognition as an accredited cardiac care center of excellence in East and Central Africa.

Speaking during the launch, CEO Rashid Khalani emphasized the hospital’s ongoing commitment to innovation and research aimed at addressing patient needs.

He pointed out that this is Kenya’s first specialized lipid clinic, a necessity driven by the increasing prevalence of heart disorders due to lifestyle changes, such as poor diet and lack of physical activity.

“We want to manage risk factors before they develop into heart disease, which will ultimately be more convenient and cost-effective for patients,” said Mr. Khalani.

Dr. Bernard Samia praised the launch and urged collaboration between the private and public sectors to improve cardiovascular health through research and effective interventions.

He highlighted the rising prevalence of hypertension in Kenya, with figures ranging from 16% to 21%, particularly influenced by urbanization and demographic shifts.

Dr. Mzee Ngunga, the clinic’s lead interventional cardiacologist, explained that proper cholesterol management can reduce the occurrence of heart attacks caused by blocked arteries—a growing issue in Kenya.

 He added that early diagnosis and management of lipid disorders can help patients live longer, healthier lives without the need for complex medications typically prescribed to those who have suffered heart attacks.

Dr. Ngunga also stressed the importance of regular check-ups, especially for individuals with a family history of heart disease.

He recommended early testing for those with first-degree relatives under 40 years old, or under 50 for women, who have had a heart attack. 

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