Health professionals are encouraging the public to adopt healthier lifestyles to reduce their risk of kidney disease as the world observes World Kidney Day.
Speaking in a radio interview on Breakfast Today on Dreamz FM, physician specialist Dr. Emmanuel Anafo of the Upper East Regional Hospital emphasized that many kidney-related illnesses can be prevented through simple lifestyle choices and regular health checks.
World Kidney Day is observed globally to raise awareness about kidney health and promote preventive measures against kidney disease.
According to Anafo, the kidneys play a critical role in maintaining overall health by filtering waste products from the blood, regulating body fluids, and balancing essential minerals in the body.
Despite their importance, he said many people neglect their kidney health until symptoms become severe.
“In the early stages of kidney disease, you may not have any symptoms,” Anafo said. “By the time symptoms appear, the kidneys may already be significantly damaged.”
Medical officer Dr. Sherifatu Tijani noted that unhealthy habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and the misuse of medications can increase the risk of kidney disease.
“Everything we consume eventually passes through the kidneys,” Tijani said. “That is why lifestyle choices are very important in protecting them.”
She warned against the common practice of self-medication, particularly the frequent use of painkillers without medical supervision.
“These drugs may provide temporary relief, but continuous use can harm the kidneys over time,” she said.
Nephrology nurse resident Richmond Bakpembang also highlighted the importance of staying hydrated to support kidney function.
Health experts recommend that healthy adults drink at least three liters of water daily, though individuals who work outdoors or sweat heavily may require more fluids.
“If you are sweating a lot or working under the sun, you will lose more body water and need to replace it,” Bakpembang said.
He also encouraged the public to undergo regular medical checkups to detect potential kidney problems early.
“Just like people service their vehicles regularly, they should also check their health,” he said. “At least twice a year, you should check your kidney function.”
The health professionals further advised people to maintain balanced diets, avoid excessive salt intake, limit alcohol consumption, and stay physically active.
They also called on communities to support public health education efforts aimed at reducing the growing burden of kidney disease.
“Preventing kidney disease starts with the choices we make every day,” Anafo said. “Taking care of our health now can save us from serious complications in the future.”
