Approximately 5 million South Africans suffer from chronic kidney disease (CKD). This is according to a recent study the World Health Organization (WHO) conducted as part of observing World Kidney Day on 10 March.
The global health agency once estimated that 500 million individuals suffer from CKD globally.
An updated 2022 study indicates this figure could be even higher, with approximately 10% of 800 million individuals affected by CKD.
“CKD is a ‘silent disease’, as most patients are asymptomatic at the onset and early stages of the disease.
“Targeted screening of people at risk of developing CKD is therefore critical for early detection, prevention, or slowing down the progression and timely management of CKD,” said Dr Fikile Tsela, nephrologist at the Urology Hospital in Pretoria.
The study revealed that occurrences of kidney failure is high among adults in South Africa, mainly due to inherited hypertension (between 60% and 65%) or type 2 diabetes (another 20% to 25%), with the rate among the country’s black population being four times higher than that of other groups due to the high incidence of hypertension.
Tsela issues a warning to South Africans: “You can lose up to 90% of kidney function before experiencing any symptoms, and most people do not have any symptoms until CKD is at an advanced stage.”
Fadhl Solomon, cardiovascular product manager for Pharma Dynamics, said roughly 2 000 patients were awaiting a kidney transplant.
“For some, the chance is slim of being matched with a suitable donor organ while still healthy enough to undergo a transplant,” said Solomon.
Symptoms of advancing CKD include, among others, swollen ankles, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, decreased appetite, as well as blood in the urine and foamy urine.
Tsela explained that CKD can progress to kidney failure. Blood and urine tests are performed to check for kidney disease, followed by the required treatment.
“The earlier the disease is detected, the better your chances of receiving effective treatment,” said Tsela.
Diabetes and high blood pressure are identified as being the two most common conditions that affect one’s kidneys. With diabetes, people are advised to also keep a close eye on their blood sugar levels and take insulin when necessary.
For high blood pressure, it is recommended that people regularly check their numbers and take all medicine exactly as prescribed.
A balanced diet and regular exercise is recommended, as well as drinking water. A healthy diet includes lots of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and few processed foods.
Medical experts encourage people to drink enough water. Water helps get important nutrients to the kidneys and moves waste to the bladder in the form of urine. Four to six cups a day is typically about right, but someone might need more if they are sick or out in the heat.
Furthermore, people are discouraged from smoking and drinking excessive alcohol. Smoking raises the risk of kidney cancer and damages blood vessels, which affects your kidneys by slowing the blood flow to them.
