Kidney Health Matters: Celebrating National Kidney Month In The Workplace

How many of you think of the well-being of a particular organ while working out or meditating? Not many. But, you must pay attention to your organs while working out.

Like deep breathing helps your lungs, drinking water helps your kidneys. Looking after your kidney health is as important as your muscles and lungs.

Kidneys are responsible for removing wastes and extra fluid from your body. It also removes the acid produced by your body's cells to maintain a healthy balance of water, salts, and minerals in your blood.

March is National Kidney Month. So this allows everyone to raise kidney health awareness and encourages individuals to adopt healthy habits. Despite kidneys being one of the most important organs, we often tend to ignore them.

What is National Kidney Month?

National Kidney Month is observed in March to raise awareness about kidney disease and the vitality of kidney health. Organizations and individuals recognize this month globally to increase awareness and educate the public about the prevalence of kidney diseases and the risk involved.

Did you know kidney disease is called a "silent disease"? It is because there are usually no symptoms during its early stages. But the earlier you find out, the sooner you can take measures to protect it from further damage.

National Kidney Foundation (NKF) is a leading organization today in to fight against kidney disease. The NKF works to increase awareness about kidney disease, provide support and resources for those affected, and fund research to find new treatments and a cure.

Importance of National Kidney Month

Keeping your body organs in good health is an important aspect of well-being.

Kidneys play a crucial role in our body's overall health and well-being. These two small organs are responsible for filtering waste products from the bloodstream and excreting them from the body through urine. They also regulate the body's fluid levels and electrolyte balance and release hormones that regulate red blood cell production and control blood pressure.

However, despite their importance, many people are unaware that kidney disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. According to a report, it is estimated that 1 in 3 American adults is at risk of developing kidney disease, and 26 million Americans have already been diagnosed.

Things You Need To Know

Several factors increase the risk factor of developing kidney diseases, including diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of the disease, and reaching a certain age like the '60s. In addition, certain populations, such as African Americans, Hispanics, and American Indians, are at higher risk of developing kidney disease due to genetic predisposition and a higher prevalence of risk factors.

• The early stages of kidney disease often have no symptoms, making them difficult to detect. Only regular check-ups can help identify any issues related to it.
  In such cases, workplaces can also help their employees identify and keep their health and wellness in check. It can organize medical check-ups and run routine kidney tests for its employees.

• Early detection and treatment of kidney disease can slow the progression of the disease and help prevent the development of more serious complications. Treatment options for kidney disease vary depending on the stage and severity of the condition.

• Lifestyle choices have a crucial role to play. Such as maintaining a healthy diet and heart, managing blood sugar and blood pressure levels, and staying physically active can help slow the progression of the disease.

• You can also take steps to protect your kidney health. By; maintaining a healthy diet, working out regularly, managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and undergoing regular check-ups with a healthcare provider.

How To Observe National Kidney Month At Work?

Here are some ways you can celebrate;

• Wear orange: Orange is the official color of National Kidney Month. So, encourage employees to wear orange to show support for kidney health.

• Host a lunch and learn: Lunch and learn sessions with healthcare professionals to speak on kidney diseases, risk factors, and prevention tips can be helpful.

• Encourage hydration: Encourage employees to drink more water throughout the day. Providing employees with water stations and organizing water challenges at work.

• Promote healthy eating: Provide healthy snacks or make Fridays a healthy potluck day. Encourage employees to bring healthy dishes, which will help them taste and know more about them. Promoting healthy eating habits at work is crucial.

Listen to: Eating Habits In The Workplace by Anjan Goswami

• Fundraise: Host a fundraising event or charity to support kidney disease research and treatment. This can be done by organizing a global walkathon for employees and leaders.

Ways Employees Can Keep Kidney Issues At Bay

1. Active Lifestyle:

Exercising is the mantra to achieving a healthy mind and body. Yoga, Zumba, Jogging, or any workout will help you maintain a healthy weight and avoid other health issues and diseases.

You can also read 7 Tips To Lead An Active Lifestyle For Overall Well-being

2. Improve your Diet:

A mindful meal is vital to remain healthy. The benefits of eating healthy are not limited to the quantity of your food intake. But also the quality of your food. The best way to improve your diet is by having more organic foods and fruits on your plate.

3. Count Your Water Intake and fluids:

Drinking 8-9 glasses of water is good for your kidney, skin, and in fact, overall body. Besides, you can make your daily detox water or juice to detoxify your body. Drinking plenty of fluids will help avoid kidney stones in the near future.

Read: Uncover the Pros And Cons Of Water Fasting

4. Avoid Smoking:

Smoking damages your body's blood vessels and slows down blood flow to your kidneys. It even puts your kidney at risk of cancer. So, try to avoid smoking for the sake of your greater well-being.

5. Check your blood sugar and pressure:

If you have high blood sugar and blood pressure are likely to have kidney problems. Therefore, if you keep your kidneys healthy, your body will filter waste properly. And also produce hormones to help your body function properly.

FAQ's

1. Who can be affected by kidney disease?

Kidney disease can affect anyone, but it is more common in people with high blood pressure, diabetes, and a family history of kidney disease.

2. What are the symptoms of kidney disease?

The early stages of kidney disease often have no symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include fatigue, swelling, and changes in urination.

3. How is kidney disease diagnosed?

Kidney disease is diagnosed through blood and urine tests, which can detect changes in kidney function and identify any underlying conditions causing kidney damage.

4. Can kidney disease be prevented?

Kidney disease can often be prevented or slowed down through lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, controlling blood pressure, and managing diabetes.

5. How can I support National Kidney Month and raise awareness about kidney disease?

You can support National Kidney Month by learning about kidney disease, sharing information with others, and making lifestyle changes to promote kidney health. You can also support organizations that work to raise awareness about kidney disease and provide support for those affected by it.

6. What are the treatment options for kidney disease?

Treatment for kidney disease depends on the disease's underlying cause and stage. In severe cases, options include medication, lifestyle changes, and dialysis or kidney transplants.

In Conclusion

Taking proactive steps to promote kidney health can help prevent kidney disease and ensure a healthier workforce. Kidney disease is a common problem affecting about 10% of the world's population.

National Kidney Month raises concern about the significance of kidney health. Moreover, its impact on individuals and families. Through education, outreach, and support, we can work together to prevent and manage this disease and improve the health and well-being of those impacted.