By Oluchi Nwabia
Healthcare providers consistently emphasize the importance of maintaining overall health. Nephrologists warn you about the “silent killer,” chronic kidney disease. It is known as the “silent killer” because it shows no symptoms until it reaches a life-threatening advanced stage.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) presents a growing challenge in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Studies show a high prevalence of CKD in Nigeria, despite limited precise data. Risk factors like hypertension and diabetes significantly contribute to this burden.
In Nigeria, limited healthcare access contributes to the increasing burden of kidney disease, highlighting the need for better kidney health prioritization.
The global community observed World Kidney Day 2025 on March 13th. This annual event raises kidney health awareness and supports those affected by kidney diseases.
This year’s theme, “Are Your Kidneys OK? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health,” emphasizes the crucial role of early detection and prevention in reducing the impact of kidney-related diseases.
Why kidney health matters
The kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood, regulating blood pressure, and maintaining the balance of essential minerals. Impaired kidney function and kidney failure lead to toxin accumulation, resulting in severe illness and increased risk of death.
The silent threat: Chronic Kidney disease (CKD)
People with CKD often show no symptoms until the disease has progressed significantly.
Symptoms of kidney disease include foamy urine, swelling, hiccups, vomiting, itching, fatigue, and convulsions.
Major risk factors for CKD include high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, family history of kidney disease, prolonged use of medications like herbal medicine and certain painkillers and infections.
Detect early, protect your kidneys
As Benjamin Franklin wisely noted, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Early detection is a powerful tool in preventing and managing kidney disease. Regular screening and initiative-taking measures can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications.
Measures to safeguard the kidneys include:
1. Regular Screening: Routine blood and urine tests can help detect early signs of kidney dysfunction.
2. Monitoring Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar levels: Keeping these levels under control can reduce the risk of kidney damage.
3. Adopting a Healthy and balanced diet that is low in salt, fat, and processed foods with a sizeable number of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
4. Staying hydrated always.
5. Regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
6. Avoid self-medication: Excessive use of certain pain relievers and unregulated herbal remedies can harm your kidneys.
Creating awareness and acting
As Eckhart Tolle stated, “Awareness is the first step towards change.” Let us unite to promote kidney health through awareness, education and preventive practices. Encourage friends and family to get screened, make healthier lifestyle choices and understand the importance of kidney care.
Together, we can be effective by detecting early and protecting our kidney health. Let us keep our kidneys strong and our communities informed.
Final Thoughts: As we commemorate this World Kidney Day, let us pause and reflect on the vital role our kidneys play in maintaining our health. Henceforth, we must endeavour to pay more attention to our kidneys through regular screening and healthy lifestyle choices.
Remember, Prevention is better than cure and your health is your greatest asset.
• Dr. Nwabia is consultant physician nephrologist in Abuja