3 million French people live with kidney disease. Too often the diagnosis is still made at an advanced stage.
These noble organs are often overlooked in favor of others. The kidneys perform a vital function in the body. When they are damaged, only dialysis or transplantation can replace them. Better to preserve them. This is the message conveyed by the Kidney Foundation on the occasion of the World Day, which will be held on March 10.
“Take care of your kidneys for your future health”, urges the Foundation for this 11and editing. It must be said that in France, the diagnosis is often made too late, at the stage of chronic renal failure. Every year an additional 10,000 people need dialysis because their kidneys can no longer function properly. The first consequence is the gradual loss of organ function. Result: 3 million people suffer from kidney disease in the country.
1.5 liters of water per day
However, this decline is not irreversible. Regular screening helps to manage kidney disease and limit the damage. It consists of an analysis of the urine – which makes it possible to search for albumin – and of the blood – the creatinine is then measured. Certain profiles are invited to go there as a priority: diabetics and hypertensives, but also obese people or people over 50, as well as those with knowledge of family forms of kidney disease. Throughout the day, sites will offer free consultations.
On the prevention side, the Kidney Foundation reminds us that it is possible to act to preserve your kidneys. Eating less salt is a key measure, as is quitting smoking. Nephrologists also recommend increasing the level of physical activity and controlling weight. To encourage the French, the campaign “Move your feet” is launched this year. Sufficient water intake every day is also very important in order to protect the kidneys: 1.5 liters from drink, 0.6 liters from food.
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