Written By Vanessa Kariuki ||
Every year on March 9, people around the world observe World Kidney Day to increase awareness about kidney health, preventive measures, risk factors, and living with renal disease.
The focus of this year’s campaign is “Kidney Health for Everyone – Preparing for the Unexpected, Supporting the Vulnerable!”
On this day, the grounds of the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) Information Centre are buzzing with activity as they provide free kidney screening services.
Since it’s still not too late, they are urging people to go and receive free dietary counselling, blood pressure and blood sugar screenings, and urine checks.
Without a healthy kidney, even the most basic tasks become dangerous because the human body depends on it to function properly.
The kidneys carry out the vital task of filtering wastes from the blood and excreting them from the body through urine. They also assist in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance.
Eating a balanced diet that contains the ideal ratio of all the nutrients can work wonders in terms of preserving kidney health.
Nonetheless, it is advised to avoid fruits, juices, dry fruits, and foods high in phosphorus if the kidneys aren’t working well.
A kidney patient needs to closely monitor their salt consumption and rigorously avoid packaged foods that can unintentionally increase their salt intake and further harm their kidneys.
Certain chronic disorders, such as diabetes and high blood pressure can also cause kidney damage; however, good management of these problems can help to restore and maintain the health of your kidneys.
All governments are urged to take action on World Kidney Day and invest in more kidney screening, test results, and hospitalization rates with reimbursements being impacted positively or negatively if targets are not met.
