The frontline defence in managing kidney health explained in Sandton
Educating people on World Kidney Day and promoting kidney health awareness throughout the year, can work towards reducing the burden of kidney disease and improving the quality of life for millions of people worldwide.
Primary health care plays a crucial role in the prevention, early detection, and management of kidney diseases.
This was discussed at a panel discussion hosted by AstraZeneca’s Phakamisa Foundation, in partnership with Campaigning for Cancer and supported by Proactive Health Solutions, on World Kidney Day.
The event highlighted preventive care, early detection, management of chronic kidney disease, and medication management.
Leading the panel discussion was Dr Fundile Nyati, with panellists Lauren Pretorius, the CEO of Campaigning for Cancer; Kelly du Plessis, the CEO of Rare Diseases SA; Dr Nomfundo Nhlapo, the founder and director of Classic Health Consulting, the Classic Training Institute, and I-Health Clinics; and Dr Sheetal Chiba of the National Kidney Foundation.
Chiba started the discussion by highlighting that primary healthcare providers played a pivotal role in promoting kidney health through preventive measures.
“This includes educating patients about maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as proper nutrition, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.”
Chiba added they may also screen patients for risk factors associated with kidney diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, and provide interventions to mitigate these risks.
Nhlapo said primary health care providers are trained to recognise these symptoms and conduct appropriate screenings and diagnostic tests to identify kidney problems early.
“Early detection allows for timely intervention and management, potentially preventing further deterioration of kidney function.”
Nyati posed a question on managing chronic kidney disease, and Chiba gave her insight, stating that primary care physicians are responsible for managing patients with chronic kidney disease in its early stages.
“This involves monitoring kidney function through regular serum creatinine testing, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and urine albumin levels.”
She elaborated that they also collaborate with nephrologists and other specialists to develop comprehensive treatment plans aimed at slowing the progression of the disease and managing associated complications such as hypertension, electrolyte imbalances, and anaemia.
Pretorius, said, “Educating people about kidneys is crucial for raising awareness about kidney health and preventing kidney diseases, as kidney screening plays a crucial role in preventive healthcare and early detection of kidney-related diseases.”
Pretorius elaborated that kidney screening helps identify signs of kidney disease at an early stage, often before symptoms become noticeable.
“It also allows for prompt treatment, which can slow or even halt the progression of kidney disease, and we advocate for that.”
In conclusion, Du Plessis said educating people about the significance of adopting a healthy lifestyle to protect their kidney health is crucial.
“Maintaining a balanced diet low in salt, sugar, and saturated fats, staying hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress is the key to avoiding kidney diseases.”
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