Recent studies indicate that 26 million American adults – approximately one in every eight – suffer from chronic kidney disease (CKD) and millions of others are at increased risk. Early detection can help prevent the progression of kidney disease to kidney failure. In the U.S. the two leading causes of kidney failure, which requires regular dialysis or transplantation to sustain life, are diabetes and high blood pressure. When these two diseases are controlled, chronic kidney disease can often be prevented or slowed down.
Did You Know?
Your kidneys are about the size of your fist and are located in the back, just below the rib cage. Their main job is to filter waste products and excess fluid from your blood. Every day, the kidneys filter about 200 quarts of fluid. About two quarts leave the body in the form of urine, while the remainder is retained in the body. The kidneys also release hormones that help regulate blood pressure, control the production of red blood cells, and make vitamins that control growth.
When the kidneys no longer perform these functions adequately, wastes and excess fluid build up in the blood. This can cause a host of health problems such as anemia, bone disorders, malnutrition, loss of kidney function, cardiovascular disease and death.
Risk Factors for CKD
Anyone can develop chronic kidney disease, but some people have an increased chance. Primary risks include diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease, and being over age 60. Secondary risks include obesity, autoimmune disease, urinary tract infections and systemic infections.
Ten Steps to Healthy Kidneys
· Exercise regularly
· Control your weight
· Get an annual physical
· Follow a healthy, low salt diet
· Know your family’s medical history
· Don’t overuse over-the-counter painkillers or NSAIDs
· Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol
· Learn about kidney disease
· Don’t smoke or abuse alcohol
· Talk to your doctor about getting tested if you are at risk for CKD
