Many people living with CKD do not have any symptoms until they are in advanced stages or complications develop; moreover, high blood pressure (hypertension) and diabetes are the two most common causes of chronic kidney disease.  In response to World Kidney Day, the Health Promotion Administration (HPA) urges the public to adopt the "8 Kidney Protection Tips," including regular physical activity, healthy eating, smoking cessation, medication safety, and controlling the three highs, to reduce the risk of CKD. Starting in 2025, the HPA is introducing kidney health education into the adult preventive health check-up services to raise awareness about the importance of kidney health and how to prevent kidney-related diseases.

Early Detection Through Health Screening – No More Kidney Health Worries

According to the analysis of the 2023 preventive health check-up data, 15% of the subjects were diagnosed with renal function abnormalities. Among those with hyperglycemia, about 3 in 10 had kidney dysfunction. Among those with hypertension, 1 in 5 had abnormalities. The rate was even higher for individuals with all three conditions (hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia), with 30% showing kidney dysfunction. Managing these conditions is key to preventing CKD.

The HPA has funded the “Adult Preventive Health Check-ups” every 5 years for individuals aged 30-39, every 3 years for those aged 40-64, and annually for those aged 65 and older. The service now includes kidney health education provided by specialist physicians, covering kidney function stages, proteinuria status, and risk factors such as the three highs, obesity, smoking, and improper medication use. This initiative helps the public understand their kidney health and promotes the idea that prevention is better than treatment.

Master the 8 Kidney Protection Tips for a Healthier Future

In addition to offering free health screenings, the HPA encourages the public to follow these 8 kidney protection tips:

1. Healthy Eating: Consume a variety of the six categories of whole, unprocessed foods, while avoiding processed food, desserts, fried items, and foods that are overly salty, sweet, and oily.
   Adequate Hydration: Healthy adults are recommended to drink about 2,000 c.c. (2 liters) of water daily to maintain proper kidney function.
2. Regular Exercise:  Develop a habit of exercising regularly. At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week is recommended to help maintain overall health and control weight.
3. Regular Blood Pressure Monitoring (722 Rule): A healthy adult's blood pressure should be less than 120/80 mmHg. Follow the "722 Rule"—: “7” represents measuring blood pressure for seven consecutive days, “2” represents taking readings twice daily (once in the morning and once before bed), and another “2” represents taking two measurements each time and using the average. Seek medical advice if abnormal readings persist.
4. Weight control: Keeping a BMI between 18.5 and 24 kg/m² helps manage metabolic syndrome and reduces the risk of CKD.
5. Smoking cessation: Smoking reduces blood flow to the kidneys, impairing their function. The HPA offers a free quit-smoking hotline (0800-636363) for individuals in need to seek professional assistance.
6. Cautious medication use: Avoid prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), painkillers, and herbal medicines from unverified sources. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns about medication.
7. Manage the Three Highs: Control the risk factors of hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia by adopting healthy lifestyle habits and following medical advice, including prescribed medications and treatments, to slow the progression of chronic kidney disease.
8. Regular Health Check-ups and Health Information to Reduce the Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease
   
   To raise public awareness and help slow the progression of CKD, the HPA not only promotes free health check-ups but also provides professional medical guidance for individuals at risk of kidney disease. Healthcare professionals offer advice on managing metabolic syndrome, quitting smoking, and adopting proper nutrition and exercise habits. The public is encouraged to utilize the online educational resources, such as the "Chronic Disease Prevention" section on the Health 99+ website (https://health99.hpa.gov.tw/theme/6), to take proactive steps in managing their health and reduce the risk of kidney disease.