Millions of Poles suffer from kidney problems

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can lead to a serious malfunction of these vital organs.

As many as three out of four million Poles with kidney diseases have already gotten to this point, as a result of a lack of regular checkups.

An expert in the field noted that CKD can be detected early on, and effectively inhibit delay of its development, for example by modifying the treatment of diabetes or hypertension.

"We have to remember that people with chronic kidney disease which is not detected in time have three-to-four times higher risk of premature death, compared to the general population.

“It is better for a patient to have a piece of his own kidneys, than to be on dialysis, or have a kidney transplanted from a donor,” said prof. Ryszard Gellert, the head of the Department of Nephrology, at the Bielanski Hospital in Warsaw.

Doctors advise that in order to avoid any kidney problems, people should: drink plenty of fluids, mostly water, avoid overweight and obesity, maintain a correct blood pressure, do not smoke and refrain from excess salt – which increases the risk of hypertension.

The World Kidney Day was celebrated on 12 March. On this day, experts encourage people to take care of their kidneys, and to have regular check-ups. (ps/rg)

Source: PAP