A kidney-aware program by the Sapiens Foundation
From being a means of exchange, a means of subsistence, and the deciding factor in our everyday meals, salt has played a vital role in the development of civilizations. In addition to enhancing our palates, the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that an individual’s salt consumption should not exceed five grams, or around two grams of sodium.
The Sapiens Health Foundation discussed the connection between blood pressure, renal problems, and salt at the Raintree Hotel on Tuesday in advance of World renal Day. The chairman of the Losalter organization, Dr. Rajan Ravichandran, introduced the group’s website and said that its goal is to raise public awareness of the relationship between salt and health. The worldwide NGO Revolve To Save Lives, which works with the WHO, has awarded us a grant. A request has been made for us to train 300 doctors nationwide, who will get health-related education regarding salt. Tool kits for propagation would be provided to them, he said.
Regarding the subject for this year, which is “Kidney Health for All – Advancing Equitable Access to Care and Optimal Medication Practice,” Dr. Rajan said that 35% of adults have hypertension and 10% have impaired kidney function. He continued by saying that while dialysis and treatment are quite expensive, preventive healthcare was essential. Dr. Rajan emphasized the need of lifestyle modifications, early diagnosis, and continuous home blood pressure monitoring.
The Mumbai renal Foundation’s head, Dr. Umesh Khanna, claims that there is a shortage of renal care. Improvements in kidney care are possible, but we must transform our knowledge into action. This is the responsibility of nephrologists, general practitioners, governments, and laypeople alike. We must ensure that it is fair to everyone. Kidney disease is prevalent. He said, “Kidney disease is the seventh leading risk factor for death globally. We should educate people and general practitioners about risk factors and provide practical solutions.”
It was emphasized by Dr. Umesh that having health insurance is crucial, as is receiving the best possible treatment that is easily accessible and inexpensive. He issued a warning against unhealthy eating practices and a sedentary lifestyle. “Living illnesses are a hereditary and cultural predisposition for Indians. The sickness that formerly primarily affected the wealthy classes is increasingly affecting young people in rural and urban areas.
Actor Maadhu Balaji, the honoree, spoke on the value of preventive healthcare and his experience giving his sister-in-law a kidney. The chief guest, scientist and former secretary of the Department of Science and Technology Thirumalachari Ramasami, emphasized the risks associated with common salt used in industrial waste to produce leather. “There are three criteria for equitable care we need — whether there is an availability of care for a disease, whether it is accessible and affordable,” he said, highlighting the need of education and an accountable healthcare system.
Advice for safeguarding the kidneys
lessen the body’s salt intake
Spend thirty minutes working out.
Consume a healthy diet.
Maintain a healthy weight
Avert long-term over-the-counter medications.
Give up smoking
Check blood pressure and sugar often.
Measure albumin in the urine once a year.
