The significance of preserving our kidneys cannot be overstated; hence, it is vital to prioritise kidney health and early identification of a renal illness.
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Dr Bha Ndungane-Tlakula, country medical director at Pfizer, said the health of our kidneys is paramount as they filter out toxins in our bodies, produce essential chemicals and break down harmful chemicals, excreting two litres of waste every day.
Ndungane-Tlakula stated that many people whose kidneys are diseased do not develop symptoms until their kidneys are close to failing; therefore, early detection of dysfunction is crucial.
Approximately 15% of the South African population has chronic kidney disease (CKD) with 20 000 new cases every year. This is according to the National Kidney Foundation of South Africa.
Kidney failure in South African adults is mainly due to inherited high blood pressure (60-65%) or type-two diabetes (20-25%).
CKD occurs with a gradual loss of kidney function over time. If left untreated, it can then lead to chronic renal failure (CRF). Once end-stage CRF occurs, dialysis for life or a kidney transplant is the only treatment options.
Lifestyle changes
Renal cell carcinoma is the most common type of kidney cancer and accounts for about 90% of all cases.
Environmental and lifestyle-related factors are significant contributors.
Cutting down on a few bad habits may help to minimise the risk of developing kidney cancer. Smoking tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption have been linked to a higher risk of developing kidney cancer.
As such, it is important for South Africans to improve their habits and be aware of the risk factors to reduce the chances of developing the disease or to diagnose it early before it spreads.
Hypertension or high blood pressure is another important factor to consider, particularly in men. Apart from that, obesity is also linked to kidney cancer and is the reason all South Africans should strive to maintain healthy body weight through a balanced diet.
“The optimal way to care for the kidneys is by controlling our blood pressure through a healthy diet, low salt intake, regular exercise, quitting smoking, managing diabetes effectively and staying hydrated with water, not sugary drinks or alcohol,” said Ndungane-Tlakula.
Also, avoid taking medications, such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory), which can harm the kidneys if taken in excess.
It has been shown that Covid-19 can impair kidney function. Thus, it is important to maintain kidney health.
Information: Eclipse Communications
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