March 9, 2023 is World Kidney Day - Kidney health for all, preparing for the unexpected and supporting the vulnerable
World Kidney Day ia a global health awareness campaign focussing on the importance of the kidneys and reducing the frequency and impact of kidney disease and its associated health problems worldwide. World Kidney Day is observed annually on the 2nd Thursday in March.
Our kidneys are amazing organs! They filter toxins, help control our blood pressure, help produce red blood cells, maintain bone health and so much more. Living with kidney disease presents hardships for people living with the disease as well as their family members, but there are supports and resources available for you.
Diabetes continues to be the leading cause of kidney disease as high blood sugars in addition to high blood pressure, damage the fragile blood vessels in these organs. Early detection and management can help slow the progression of this decline. There are several new medications that have proven effective in this effort, in addition to the cornerstones of a healthy diet and good blood sugar control.
What can you do if you have diabetes?
Ask your health professional if blood or urine tests have been done to check your kidney function.
Maintain good blood sugar control and good blood pressure control.
Ask any questions you have to better understand these tests and how you can make a difference.
What should my targets be?
For most people:
- Your A1C result (3 month average blood sugar) should be 7 or below.
- Your blood pressure should be 130/80 or below.
Talk to your health care provider to see what your individual targets are, what your A1C is, and what your kidney function tests show.
For more information on kidney disease and diabetes:
Diabetes Canada: www.diabetes.ca/managing-my-diabetes/preventing-complications/kidney-disease
Canadian Kidney Foundation: kidney.ca/
‘Spice it Up’ for recipe ideas that are diabetes and kidney friendly: www.myspiceitup.ca
Click here for more information about World Kidney Day.