TELL (Transplant Education for Living Legacies) is talking all things kidney health for World Kidney Day and preparing for its fun walk, happening this weekend!
South Africa (13 March 2025) – As the world marks World Kidney Day on 13 March 2025, TELL (Transplant Education for Living Legacies) is amplifying the global message: “Are Your Kidneys OK?” This vital question underscores the importance of kidney health, early detection, and access to life-saving treatments.
The Silent Epidemic: Chronic Kidney Disease in South Africa
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a silent epidemic affecting millions worldwide, including 8,500 people on dialysis in South Africa. However, the true burden is far greater. Many South Africans with advanced kidney disease are unable to access dialysis, leaving them without the care they urgently need. Early detection and prevention are key to reducing this burden and saving lives.
You can lose up to 90% of your kidney function without showing any signs or symptoms of kidney failure. This makes regular screening crucial, especially for those at higher risk.
World Kidney Day, a global awareness campaign, has developed Eight Golden Rules to follow to ensure you keep your precious kidneys healthy.
The Eight Golden Rules for Kidney Health
- Monitor and control your blood pressure: Knowing your blood pressure is essential, as high blood pressure can damage your kidneys and cause CKD, which can progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Normal blood pressure is 120/80. If your blood pressure is consistently above this level, consult your healthcare provider to discuss lifestyle and dietary changes to control it.
- Control your blood sugar level: Many people with diabetes develop ESRD. Maintaining your blood sugar levels and having your kidney function tested regularly can reduce or even prevent the progression to ESRD with early detection.
- Get moving: Regular exercise offers several benefits, including: -Maintaining a healthy weight, -Reducing blood pressure -Lowering the risk of developing CKD
- Eat a healthy diet and maintain a stable weight: A healthy diet can prevent lifestyle-related diseases like diabetes and heart disease, which are linked to CKD. Limit your salt intake to 5-6 grams per day (about a teaspoon). Processed foods often contain high salt levels, so prepare meals using fresh ingredients when possible.
- Drink enough water: Staying hydrated helps your kidneys remove waste and excess minerals like sodium, potassium, and phosphates. Your ideal fluid intake depends on your activity level, climate, and health conditions. Consult your doctor to determine the right amount of fluids for you.
- Don’t start smoking – and quit if you do Smoking reduces blood flow to the kidneys, impairing their function and preventing them from effectively removing toxins. Quitting smoking can help protect your kidney health.
- Avoid over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication: Regular use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can increase your risk of CKD. Speak to your healthcare professional about safer ways to manage pain and protect your kidneys.
Get your kidney function checked regularly if you are in a high-risk group. You are at higher risk for CKD if you have:
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Cardiovascular disease
- Obesity
- A family history of kidney disease
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Chronic Kidney Disease, but it can be prevented and its progression to End Stage Renal Disease can be managed. By following these Eight Golden Rules, you can protect your kidneys—your body’s essential filters—and maintain your overall health.
TELL’s Commitment to Kidney Health and Organ Donation
TELL is dedicated to raising awareness about kidney health and the transformative power of organ donation. Through educational campaigns, community outreach, and free kidney health screenings, TELL empowers individuals to take proactive steps toward better health. By fostering conversations around kidney disease, TELL aims to break down misinformation and encourage life-saving organ donations.
“The question, ‘Are Your Kidneys OK?’ is a reminder that kidney health cannot be taken for granted,” says Stella de Kock, TELL Managing Director. “By promoting early detection and encouraging organ donation, we can help more people receive the care they deserve and improve outcomes for those living with kidney disease.”
Take Action This World Kidney Day
This World Kidney Day, TELL encourages everyone to:
- Know Your Risk: Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and a family history of kidney disease increase your risk.
- Get Screened: Regular kidney health checks can detect problems early when they are most treatable.
- Support Organ Donation: By becoming an organ donor, you can offer a second chance at life to those in need.
Join Us: TELL’s Fun Walk at Big Red Barn
TELL is hosting a Fun Walk at the Big Red Barn (Centurion) on Saturday, 15 March 2025. This family-friendly event aims to promote kidney health and raise awareness about the importance of early detection.
Pathcare will offer free health screenings to the public, including blood pressure and kidney function tests. Join us for a fun-filled morning, get the heart rate going for healthy kidneys, and support the cause of kidney health and organ donation. Tickets are available at Webtickets here.
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