18/06/2024
Each week, we are adding at least three patients to our waiting list. It is important to prioritize kidney health to prevent complications.
Here are some recommendations for maintaining healthy kidneys:
1. Stay active and maintain fitness.
2. Keep blood sugar levels under control.
3. Monitor blood pressure regularly.
4. Manage weight and follow a balanced diet.
5. Ensure adequate fluid intake.
6. Refrain from smoking.
7. Avoid unnecessary over-the-counter pain relievers and medications.
8. If you are at high risk, consider getting tested for kidney function.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR KIDNEYS, SAYS CHO
Practice healthy habits to have healthy kidneys, according to the City Health Office (CHO), to mark the celebration of National Kidney Awareness Month.
Recent data from the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) shows that the number of dialysis patients in the country rose by 42%—from 25,125 in 2022 to 35,714 in 2023.
This has put medical experts in concern over the number of Filipinos seeking dialysis procedures due to kidney failure.
One Filipino per hour is diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, said Dr. Rey Isidto, San Isidro Dialysis Center nephrologist.
Isidto also mentioned that the number of dialysis patients they accommodate has increased at San Isidro Dialysis Center in Jaro and East Baluarte Dialysis Center in Molo.
The sudden rise in numbers may be attributed to complications brought on by diabetes, hypertension, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and other related diseases.
Others are caused by living an unhealthy lifestyle or possible influence of genetics.
Isidto emphasized that there are risk factors for individuals diagnosed with chronic kidney diseases, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, heart disease, those who habitually smoke, and the obese.
However, such renal diseases can only be detected through laboratory tests like urinalysis, creatinine ratio, and others.
The health official encouraged the public not to wait for signs and symptoms before seeking medical assistance.
He also urged them to start building a healthy lifestyle, eat nutritious food, and exercise regularly.
CHO advised the youth to have a balanced and healthy diet, avoid smoking and alcoholic drinks, refrain from eating food with high sodium content, drink water, and have regular checkups. (Angelo Miranda/Iloilo City PIO)
