World Kidney Day 14 March 2024

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste, leading to kidney failure or permanent loss of function.

Worldwide, more than 10% of the total population is facing chronic kidney disease, or more than 800 million people. According to data from The Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD), chronic kidney disease ranks as one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide. In Thailand, data in 2019 reported more than 16,000 deaths from chronic kidney disease.

In order to promote health care, to slow down the deterioration of the kidneys, there are recommendations. As follows:

1. Drink 6-8 glasses of water a day, don't let your kidneys become dehydrated, especially when in hot places. 
2. Eat foods that are good for the kidneys, add a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. Avoid adding seasonings or consuming processed foods.
3. Constantly monitor blood pressure levels. If it is above 140/90 mmHg, it is better to see a doctor.
4. Keep blood sugar levels within normal ranges, especially in diabetics.
5. Quit smoking and avoid alcohol.
6. Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy body weight.
7. Undergo regular check-ups to monitor kidney function levels.
8. Refrain from taking painkillers, non-steroidal inflammatory relievers (NSAIDs), or herbs for a long time.

Chronic kidney disease is a major public health problem in the world. More and more people are suffering from this disease on World Kidney Day. World Kidney Day on March 14 We would like to convey our concern to all of you to see the importance of kidney health and access to comprehensive preventive care.

Reference

1. International Health Policy Development Agency Disease Burden Index Development Plan of Thailand. Disability-Adjusted Life Years: DALYS Report on the Burden of Disease and Injury of the Thai Population, 2019. Press Co., Ltd.;
2. Kovesdy CP. Epidemiology of chronic kidney disease: an update 2022. Kidney Int Suppl (2011). 2022;12(1):7-11.
3. The Global Burden of Diseases 2019, Diseases and Injuries Collaborators. Global burden of 369 diseases and injuries in 204 countries and territories, 1990-2019: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 [published correction appears in Lancet. 2020 Nov 14;396(10262):1562]. Lancet. 2020;396(10258):1204-22.
4. Negoianu D., Goldfarb S. Just add water. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2008;19(6):1041-43.
5. Chen TK, Knicely DH, Grams ME. Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosis and Management: 
6. A Review. JAMA. 2019;322(13):1294-1304.