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ISN Fellow Ahmad Naseer Kaihan, from Afghanistan, completed an intensive 12-month training program from May 2023 to May 2024 under the guidance of Professor Shoichi Maruyama at Nagoya University in Japan.

Dr. Kaihan comments: “Professor Maruyama and Professor Yasuda’s mentorship and support have been invaluable to my growth and development. Their guidance has given me invaluable skills and insights that have greatly enhanced my understanding and capabilities. I am thankful for their generous support and guidance through the ISN Fellowship Program.”

Now back in Afghanistan, Dr. Kaihan is applying his training to develop local kidney care services and share his knowledge with colleagues, aiming to create sustainable improvements in kidney care.

Professor Shoichi Maruyama (left) and Dr. Kaihan (second from left) during his ISN Fellowship with colleagues from Nagoya University

According to Dr. Kaihan, kidney care in Afghanistan faces significant challenges. Access to specialized kidney care services is limited, particularly in rural areas, and there is a shortage of trained healthcare professionals and advanced medical equipment. Many patients struggle with late-stage diagnosis due to a lack of awareness and screening programs for kidney disease.

In addition, there is a pressing need for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, public education about kidney health, and policies to make treatments more accessible and affordable for all citizens. He states, “My experience in renal imaging and renal pathology as an ISN Fellow can significantly contribute to improving the standards of treatment in Afghanistan.

By training healthcare professionals in advanced imaging technologies and organizing workshops on the latest advancements in renal imaging and pathology, I aim to enhance the skills of medical practitioners and improve patient outcomes.”

Dr. Kaihan is currently researching kidney disease epidemiology, developing cost-effective treatment protocols, and advocating for improved health systems and public education. He is leading training programs for healthcare professionals, organizing workshops and seminars, and contributing to developing nephrology curricula to elevate the standard of local kidney care and education.

He commented, ” I would highly recommend an ISN Fellowship to others working in the field of nephrology in Afghanistan. The fellowship provides invaluable hands-on experience, exposure to advanced medical practices, and access to a global network of experts in nephrology. It’s a fantastic opportunity for professional development and can significantly contribute to improving kidney care standards back home.”

Dr. Kaihan’s fellowship was supported by the Detlef Schlöndorff ISN Fellowship Fund, which nurtures talent to help advance kidney care in under-resourced regions. His story highlights the transformative potential of the ISN Fellowship Program and the vital role of the program in helping bridge gaps in global healthcare.

You can help support more success stories like Dr. Kaihan’s by donating to the Detlef Schlöndorff ISN Fellowship Fund.

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