According to data released by the Italian Society of Nephrology, approximately 10 percent of the population is estimated to be affected by kidney disease, and the number of patients suffering from it in various degrees of severity reaches almost 4.5 million.

In general, the mortality rate associated with kidney disease is increasing yearly to the extent that it could become the fifth leading cause of death by 2040.

However, there should be more awareness of the importance of kidneys to the body and how lifestyle choices can also affect them. So, what are the kidneys’ functions, and how can we maintain their health? We delve into this topic with a nephrologist.

What are Kidneys and Their Functions?

The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located behind the abdominal cavity, measuring approximately 3-4 inches and weighing about 160 grams each. They perform crucial functions for our bodies, including:

  • Eliminating waste substances, including certain medications, from the body;
  • Maintaining the balance of water, salts, acids, bicarbonates, and other substances, adapting to various external conditions;
  • Stimulating the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow through the release of erythropoietin;
  • Promoting the absorption of calcium from the intestines by activating vitamin D and regulating parathormone production;
  • Regulating blood pressure through water and salt absorption or elimination and producing hormones like renin and prostaglandins, which work with the nervous system, heart, and blood vessels.

What Happens When the Kidneys are Diseased?

Kidney disease involves the loss of specific functions, resulting in:

  • Inability to eliminate acidic and waste substances introduced through the diet;
  • Accumulation of drugs in the body;
  • Reduced production of red blood cells in the bone marrow;
  • Alterations in bone structure, leading to increased susceptibility to fractures and arterial calcification;
  • Retention of water and salt, resulting in high blood pressure and cardiovascular damage;
  • Inflammation-related metabolic disturbances in sugars, fats, and proteins;
  • Immunological damage.

How to Identify Chronic Kidney Disease?

A simple blood test to check creatinine levels and a urine examination are sufficient to identify the disease. Based on these results, healthcare professionals may recommend further investigations.

Chronic kidney disease affects about 10 percent of the general population and 40 percent of the elderly, making it one of the leading causes of death. 

Unfortunately, it often goes unrecognized in about 60 percent of the population, resulting in delayed specialist referrals. This is because the loss of kidney function is usually gradual and asymptomatic, allowing the body to adapt even when efficiency is reduced by up to 95 percent.

What are the High-Risk Conditions?

Risk factors beyond our control include aging and hereditary diseases. However, there are steps we can take to reduce the risk associated with conditions such as:

  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Obesity
  • Drug abuse
  • Smoking
  • High blood pressure
  • Kidney stones

How Can We Maintain Kidney Health?

To keep our kidneys healthy, it is essential to adopt a proper lifestyle:

  • Reduce salt and calorie intake to healthy levels;
  • Engage in regular exercise to minimize the risk of obesity and related metabolic diseases;
  • Limit alcohol consumption;
  • Avoid smoking and inappropriate use of medications.

By following these guidelines, we can contribute to the well-being and longevity of our kidneys.