World Kidney Day | A healthy kidney is everything

Editor's Note: March 14, 2024 is the 19th World Kidney Day. This year's theme is "Kidney Health for All: Advancing equitable access to care and optimal medication practice", which aims to arouse attention to kidney health and promote the prevention and treatment of kidney diseases. In order to build a health science popularization platform for medical workers and improve the public's understanding of kidney diseases, this magazine has launched an essay solicitation activity on the occasion of World Kidney Day and selected excellent articles for readers.

Kidneys, known as the "detoxification factory" of the human body, play a vital role in physical health. However, due to increased stress in life and the formation of bad living habits, the incidence of kidney disease has been rising year by year, and chronic kidney disease has become a major disease threatening human health. At present, one in ten adults in the world suffers from chronic kidney disease, and the number of chronic kidney disease patients in China has exceeded 100 million. Kidney concerns, gentle warning

Chronic kidney disease is a gradually developing disease that may not have obvious symptoms in the early stages, but may lead to serious complications as the disease progresses. Potential prodromal manifestations such as foam in the urine, frequent urination, decreased urine volume, and edema should all be a cause for concern.

Healthy life, kidney travels the world

Being alert to the occurrence of chronic kidney disease is the first step in protecting kidney health, and an active and healthy lifestyle is the key to continuously maintaining kidney health.

Salt control protects blood pressure

Sodium in salt is the "enemy" of the kidneys. Excessive intake will increase blood pressure, increase the burden on the kidneys, and lead to diseases such as hypertension. Therefore, we should try to avoid eating processed foods and salty snacks, control daily salt intake within 6 grams, and keep a light diet to reduce the risk of hypertension.

Be careful with sugar and protect the pancreas

A high-sugar diet can easily lead to obesity and diabetes, and put a burden on the kidneys. Therefore, we should reduce the intake of sweets, beverages and sugary drinks, choose fresh fruits as a substitute for sweets, control blood sugar levels, and prevent diabetes.

Be cautious with drugs and stay away from poison

Some drugs are toxic to the kidneys, and long-term or abused use may damage kidney function. Common nephrotoxic drugs include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen, aspirin), antibiotics (such as aminoglycosides), diuretics, etc. You should consult a doctor before taking any medication to avoid unnecessary risks and protect kidney health.

Moisture retention, detoxification and stability

Drinking water in moderation helps promote detoxification, helps the kidneys remove metabolic products and toxins from the body, and maintains the body's water and electrolyte balance. The amount of water you drink every day should be adjusted according to your physical condition and activity level. It is generally recommended to drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day. Drink more boiled water to maintain normal kidney function.

Reasonable exercise makes kidneys stronger

Moderate exercise can help enhance kidney function, promote blood circulation, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes. It is recommended to do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, cycling, etc., to maintain good health.

Regular physical examinations to gain insights into your health

Regular physical examinations should include a complete routine urine test, urine microalbumin test, urinary system + renal artery B-ultrasound examination, renal function test, blood pressure, blood sugar, blood lipids, blood uric acid and other tests to fully understand kidney function and overall health status.

Kidney health is related to everyone's quality of life and longevity. On the occasion of World Kidney Day, let us take action together to pay attention to kidney health, cultivate good living habits, prevent kidney disease, and let everyone have a healthy kidney.

(Author: Tian Jin, Department of Public Health, First Hospital of Hebei Medical University)