Life Robinson marks World Kidney Day
In the interest of the community’s health, Life Robinson Private Hospital's Renal Unit did its its bit, offering blood pressure (hypertension) and glucose (sugar) screenings to the public on World Kidney Day.
During the world-celebrated World Kidney Day, which took place on Thursday, 8 March, various health facilities around the world also promoted awareness campaigns by educating the public about the health scare of kidney disease.
In the interest of the community’s health, Life Robinson Private Hospital’s Renal Unit did its bit, offering blood pressure (hypertension) and glucose (sugar) screenings to the public on World Kidney Day.
The renal unit conducted 116 screenings and provided health education about these conditions, the damaging effect they have on kidneys and renal dialysis.
“World Kidney Day is an international campaign aimed at raising awareness of the importance of our kidneys”, said Dr Marinda Overbeek, hospital manager.
Overbeek also said two of the most common causes of kidney disease are high blood pressure and diabetes. It has been estimated that 10 per cent of the world’s population has some degree of chronic kidney disease.
Both high blood glucose and high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels, leading to reduced kidney function. Diabetes can also lead to damage to the nerves in the body, which can cause difficulty in urinating, and pressure from the full bladder can harm the kidneys.
The symptoms of chronic kidney disease differ, but may include the following:
Frequent need to urinate; swelling of legs; puffiness around the eyes; high blood pressure; fatigue and weakness; loss of appetite; nausea and vomiting; itching and easy bruising; shortness of breath; headaches; sleep problems; restless leg syndrome; chest pain; bleeding; bone pain; decreased interest in sex and erectile dysfunction.
What people can do to prevent kidney disease:
Keep fit and active; keep regular control of your blood sugar level; monitor your blood pressure; eat healthily and keep your weight in check; maintain a healthy fluid intake; do not smoke; do not take over-the-counter pills (such as pain medication) on a regular basis; and decrease your salt intake, especially if you suffer from high blood pressure.
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