In Focus - Kidney Health
This month the in focus health issue is Kidney Health.
The health in focus area provides information on the RFDS role in treating patients with kidney disease and preventing the onset of illness in rural and remote areas. There are links to resources on kidney health and key papers and reports for health professionals. There are also a list of key external websites devoted to kidney health.
RFDS is grateful to Kidney Health Australia for providing information for this month’s in focus health topic.
Key facts and figures
1 in 3 Australians is at increased risk of chronic kidney disease if they have one or more of the following risk factors:
- Are over 50 years of age
- Have diabetes
- Have high blood pressure
- Are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent
- A family history of kidney disease
- A smoker
- Are obese
Smoking, obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes contribute to 50 Australians a day dying with kidney related disease, more than breast cancer, road deaths or suicide.
Kidneys are vital organs responsible for:
- Removing waste and fluid from the body
- Helping to control blood pressure
- Helping with the production of red blood cells
- Keeping the proper balance of salts and acids in the body
- Producing hormones
Your kidneys look after you. So if you are at risk, take a test and look after them.
For more information call Kidney Health Australia on 1800 4 KIDNEY (1800 4 543 639) or visit www.checkmykidneys.com.au