Get message of healthy living across to tackle diabetes-induced kidney failure

WE applaud the Health Ministry's plans outlined recently to battle diabetes. The National Kidney Foundation (NKF), as an integral part of the national health system, has an important role to play in joining and supporting the government's efforts to tackle this growing problem as two in three cases of kidney failure are due to diabetes.

Our nation ranks second worldwide for diabetes-induced kidney failure, accounting for 65 per cent of all kidney patients. Seven in 10 kidney patients have diabetes and/or hypertension, the leading causes of kidney failure. There is one new case of kidney failure every five hours and we are concerned that the situation would get worse due to the ageing population and increasing diabetic, hypertensive and obesity rates.

The key is prevention. While kidney failure cannot be reversed, diabetes and hypertension can be prevented or controlled, if diagnosed and treated early. Good food choices and nutrition, regular exercise, appropriate health checks and maintaining a healthy weight are effective lifestyle interventions that can help reduce the risk of kidney diseases.