Preventing kidney failure

YOU know there is a problem when, on several business forums, people suggest starting up a dialysis centre because of the high prevalence rate of kidney failure due to drug abuse, alcohol abuse, and different lifestyle choices. Lately, there has been a very marked increase in the number of kidney failure cases that you see nowadays. This could be due to several factors. Previously, we heard stories of brief illnesses killing people but now we have a better understanding of the causes of death. A factor responsible for the increase in cases could be a lifestyle change. Right now, we are consuming all kinds of drinks and foods with a high amount of processing, compared to a generation ago, and that is beginning to tell on the bodies of those with a  huge amount of sugar, energy drinks, salt and alcohol intake. These are beginning to tell on the health of these people and one of the ways which we are seeing signs of this is in kidney failure. The cases have increased and it cuts across ages.

Some habits help maintain good kidney health and reduce the risk of kidney failure. It is important to adopt healthy lifestyle habits. Here are some of the best habits to help you avoid kidney failure: drinking an adequate amount of water helps maintain optimal kidney function. It helps flush out toxins and waste products from the body. Aim to drink at least 8 cups of water per day, unless you have a medical condition that restricts fluid intake. Eat a balanced diet. Follow a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit your intake of processed foods, saturated fats, and high-sodium foods, as they can strain the kidneys. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential nutrients and antioxidants that promote kidney health. Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity and overweight can increase the risk of kidney disease. Aim to maintain a healthy weight through a combination of regular physical activity and a well-balanced diet. Regular exercise also helps improve blood circulation and overall organ function.

Control blood pressure. High blood pressure (hypertension) is a leading cause of kidney damage. Monitor your blood pressure regularly and take steps to keep it within a healthy range. Adopt a low-sodium diet, limit alcohol consumption, and follow any prescribed medications or lifestyle modifications recommended by your doctor. Manage diabetes. Diabetes is another significant risk factor for kidney disease. If you have diabetes, it’s crucial to manage your blood sugar levels effectively. Follow your doctor’s guidance regarding medication, diet, exercise and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels. Limit alcohol consumption. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to kidney damage. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines moderate drinking as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. Quit smoking. Smoking can damage blood vessels and decrease blood flow to the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney disease. Quitting smoking is beneficial for overall health, including kidney health.

Avoid overuse of over-the-counter pain medications. Regular or excessive use of over-the-counter pain medications like NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can harm the kidneys over time. Follow the recommended dosage and consult your doctor if you need to take them frequently or for a prolonged period. Stay physically active. Regular physical activity helps maintain overall health, including kidney health. Engage in moderate-intensity exercises such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or any activity that you enjoy. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, or as recommended by your doctor. Get regular check-ups. Regular medical check-ups allow your doctor to monitor your kidney function and identify any potential issues early on. Discuss with your doctor kidney health screening tests, such as blood tests to assess kidney function (e.g., serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate). Remember, it is always advisable to consult with your doctor for personalised advice and recommendations regarding your kidney health, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or concerns. Collectively as a society, we can all make it a duty to,

Conducting public awareness campaigns to educate people about kidney health, risk factors, and preventive measures can help individuals make informed choices, as will encouraging regular check-ups and screenings, particularly for individuals at higher risk, such as those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. Early detection allows for timely intervention and management. Encouraging a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption are essential for kidney health. Improving access to healthcare means enhancing healthcare infrastructure, particularly in underserved areas, ensuring the availability of necessary medications and treatments, and promoting affordability and accessibility to dialysis and transplantation services for those in need. Again, identifying and addressing potential environmental factors contributing to kidney failure, such as exposure to toxins or pollutants, can be crucial for prevention and control. Relevant healthcare authorities, government agencies, and non-profit organisations need to work together to address the rise in kidney failure cases. By adopting a multi-faceted approach, it may be possible to mitigate the impact of kidney failure and improve overall kidney health in the affected population.

Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes may help postpone complications that can include kidney failure. Keep in mind the common early signs of bloody or brown urine and blood pressure spikes. Bleaching cream has been identified as one of the causes of kidney failure. Appreciate your skin’s complexion.

• Okojevoh is Executive Secretary of the Society for Health, Safety, and Environmental Education.

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