Kidneys
Our kidneys serve as our bodies' intricate and efficient waste management system, filtering fluids and separating waste from essential nutrients. While we possess two kidneys, the function of at least one is vital for survival, underscoring the significance of kidney health for overall well-being. Despite their critical role, kidneys are often overlooked, as evidenced by statistics revealing that approximately 1.7 million Australians aged 18 and above, constituting 10 per cent of the population, exhibit signs of chronic kidney disease, with less than 10 per cent aware of their condition, leaving about 1.5 million Australians unaware of their condition.
Chronic kidney disease presents a growing public health concern, with one in three Australians facing an elevated risk of its development. This issue is exacerbated by the aging demographic, with over 40 per cent of individuals above 75 years displaying indicators of the disease. Dubbed a 'silent disease,' chronic kidney disease often progresses without warning signs, with individuals potentially losing up to 90 per cent of kidney function before symptoms emerge. Our kidneys diligently filter our blood supply approximately 12 times per hour, processing around 200 litres of blood daily to produce urine and eliminate excess fluids and waste products.
Protecting kidney health is paramount, given that individuals with chronic kidney disease face a two to three-fold higher risk of cardiac death compared to those without the condition. While mortality rates associated with several chronic diseases, including certain cancers, are stable or declining, kidney disease is on the rise, claiming two Australian lives per hour.
Several measures can be taken to safeguard kidney health:
Monitor blood pressure regularly and maintain levels within recommended ranges.
Manage diabetes by monitoring blood glucose levels and adhering to targets.
Maintain a healthy weight through wise dietary choices.
Engage in regular exercise.
Limit alcohol consumption.
Stay hydrated by drinking water.
Your local pharmacy can offer guidance on lifestyle adjustments conducive to kidney health. Pharmacists can also provide information on medications, their mechanisms, potential interactions, and address any queries or concerns regarding kidney health and treatment.
