If detected early, chronic kidney diseases can be treated, reducing other complications and the growing burden of death and disability from chronic renal and cardiovascular disease worldwide.
This was said Thursday by Dr. Eric Chua, consultant nephrologist of the National Kidney and Transplant Institute during the observance of the World Kidney Day.
Chua pointed out the functions of human kidneys and the ways to keep them healthy.
Chua explained the human kidneys play a vital role by cleansing body from toxins, excess waters, acids, and medicines being taken.
Chua also added the kidneys removes excess sodium, potassium, calcium and phosphorous to keep the body fit and healthy.
He said kidneys are responsible for controlling blood pressure by secreting renin.
"It can be also a silent killer," Chua warned, noting there are cases that patients did not know they had chronic kidney disease and did not consult a doctor until their condition worsened.
Chua recommended people should undergo periodic checkup, observe healthy diet by avoiding too much intake of salty foods, soft drinks, those rich in protein and those with high cholesterol.
He also warned people should be careful in the intake of herbal products and pain relievers.
Celebrated on the second Thursday of March, World Kidney Day aims to raise awareness of the importance of human kidney to any person's health.
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