Chronic Kidney Disease: How to Protect Your Kidney Health

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a silent epidemic affecting millions of Americans, with an estimated 1 in 7 adults in the United States living with this condition¹⁴. What's even more alarming is that many people are unaware they have kidney disease, as it often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages¹.

Understanding the Risk Factors

Several factors can increase a person's risk of developing chronic kidney disease:

Diabetes and High Blood Pressure

Diabetes and hypertension are the two leading causes of CKD³⁵. Approximately 1 in 3 adults with diabetes and 1 in 5 adults with high blood pressure have chronic kidney disease⁵. These conditions can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste and excess fluid from the body.

Heart Disease and Obesity

Adults with heart failure have a higher risk of developing CKD due to reduced blood flow to the kidneys⁵. Obesity is also a significant risk factor, as it increases the likelihood of developing diabetes and high blood pressure, which in turn raise the risk of kidney disease.

Smoking and Poor Diet

Lifestyle choices play a crucial role in kidney health. Smoking and poor dietary habits, such as consuming foods high in salt, can contribute to the development of CKD³. Quitting smoking and adopting a healthy, balanced diet can help reduce the risk of kidney disease.

Family History

CKD tends to run in families⁵. If you have a close relative with kidney disease, you may be at a higher risk of developing the condition yourself. It's essential to be aware of your family medical history and discuss it with your healthcare provider.

Taking Action

National Kidney Month serves as a reminder for all of us to prioritize our kidney health. Here are some steps you can take to protect your kidneys:

1. Get regular check-ups and screenings, especially if you have risk factors for CKD.
2. Manage existing health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
3. Maintain a healthy weight through proper diet and regular exercise.
4. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
5. Stay hydrated and avoid excessive use of over-the-counter pain medications.

By raising awareness about chronic kidney disease and its risk factors, we can encourage early detection and prevention. Remember, your kidney health is unique, and your path to maintaining it should be too². If you have any concerns, please reach out to your urologist.

Resources

1. National Kidney Foundation. 37 Million American Adults Now Estimate to Have Chronic Kidney Disease. Available at 37 Million American Adults Now Estimated to Have Chronic Kidney Disease | National Kidney Foundation
2. National Kidney Disease. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Available at Chronic kidney disease (CKD) - Symptoms, causes, treatment | National Kidney Foundation.
3. NIDDK. Diabetic Kidney Disease. Available at Diabetic Kidney Disease - NIDDK.
4. National Kidney Foundation. Kidney Disease: Fact Sheet. Available at Kidney Disease: Fact Sheet | National Kidney Foundation/
5. CDC. Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease. Available at Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease | Chronic Kidney Disease | CDC.